Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser

Ep. 37: Interview with Cherisse Fortunato: Lessons of Love, Loss, and Letting Go

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Join the conversation with Cherisse Fortunato, author and self-proclaimed recovering people pleaser, as she shares intimate stories about overcoming her people-pleasing along her path to self-discovery. Starting with her childhood background, we follow the timeline of her healing journey through aspects of her life- romantic relationships, friendships, family, and parenthood. Cherisse shares actionable steps she’s taken to be able to set boundaries and start putting her own self care at the forefront of her healing journey.

Cherisse also dives into her experiences working in radio, her transformative journey into motherhood, and the significant impact of her brother's passing. We dive into what motherhood looks like when trying to end the people pleaser cycle. She offers valuable insights and lessons she aims to pass on to her daughters including resources for parents.

Cherisse talks about her new memoir, All In: Lessons Learned Through the Loss of a Beautiful LIfe. She delves into how her brother's death inspired her to write her memoir aimed at spreading kindness and combating the stigma surrounding mental health She shares practical advice for anyone struggling with similar issues.

Read Cherisse’s memoir -

All In: Life LessonsLife lessons learned through the loss of a beautiful life

Resources:

Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy

"The Magic of Not Giving a F*ck"- Ted Talk by Sarah Knight

About the Guest:

Cherisse Fortunato

I am a mom of two daughters, teacher aide at Clarence Center Elementary, and first time author. My book, All In, shares my story of the loss of my brother Justin to suicide, and how his loss along with becoming a new mother shortly after, taught me invaluable lessons. Most importantly- only by loving and understanding ourselves can we offer our most genuine and gracious self to others. My book is available on Amazon or nfbpublishing.com

@cherissefortunato on Instagram

Cherisse's Facebook page

Cherisse's memoir

Timestamps:

01:14 Guest Introduction: Cherisse Fortunato

02:51 Defining People Pleasing

03:19 Personal Reflections on People Pleasing

03:55 Enneagram and Helper Personalities

04:46 Balancing Self-Care and People Pleasing

09:25 Childhood Impact on People Pleasing

12:22 Personal Relationships

14:32 Romantic Relationships and People Pleasing

17:05 Navigating Social Interactions

23:07 Navigating Friendships and Energy Management

23:49 Overcoming FOMO and Embracing JOMO

25:51 Tools for Self-Reflection and Healing

27:26 Parenting and Personal Growth

29:13 Book Recommendations and Influences

30:54 The Power of Saying No

34:00 Writing a Memoir: A Journey of Healing

41:04 All In: Lessons from Loss and Love - a Memoir by Cherisse Fortunato

44:31 Final Thoughts and Bumper Sticker Wisdom

About Your Host

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser

Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser website

Ep. 36: Journaling to Release Baggage and Craft Self-Care Lists: Your First Step to Heal People-Pleasing

Jenny Leckey — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 10:45:00 -0400

“Healing is a time to be playful...letting go, loosening your grip, being in the here and now, having some fun, having some laughter and joy."- Jenny Leckey

Jenny Leckey is back with a new season of the Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser Podcast! In this episode, she reintroduces herself and the podcast's mission to offer a supportive, inclusive space for people pleasers at any stage of their healing journey.

She shares her own background, from radio to teaching, and now to energy healing and spiritual mentorship. She stresses the importance of feeling seen through shared stories and how it can start to change your habits and rewire your brain.

Jenny also introduces her personal definition of people pleasing and offers advice for starting your recovery journey through journaling and taking small, joyful self care steps to start to change your life.

00:00 Welcome Back to the Podcast!

01:16 Meet Your Host: Jenny Leckey

03:31 Understanding People Pleasing

04:26 Defining People Pleasing

05:57 The Healing Journey

08:34 Journaling: Practical Tips for Recovery

About The Host:

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser

Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser website

Ep. 35: Finding Work - Life Balance through the Power of Boundaries: an Interview with Jeff Jolton

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0400

"I think that is all about being raised male, right? That self-silencing, not being able to express your true feelings about something." - Jeff Jolton

In this episode, Jeff Jolton, an industrial organizational psychologist, shares his personal journey of overcoming people pleasing behavior in the work place and in his personal life. Jeff opens up about his struggle with balancing professional demands while also being a father and husband. He discusses how his people pleasing tendencies were driven by a pursuit of perfection in all the roles he plays in his life.

He discusses societal expectations on men, particularly the different forms of people pleasing between genders, and how they affect personal boundaries and self-worth. Jeff also provides practical advice on setting boundaries, recognizing personal wants, and the importance of being present.

This episode offers valuable insights for anyone struggling with people pleasing and how to find a work-life balance.

00:54 Professional Journey and People-Pleasing Tendencies

03:25 Balancing Work and Family

04:03 Gender Dynamics in People-Pleasing

11:17 Realizations and Turning Points

15:50 Setting Boundaries and Workplace Culture

22:50 The Power of Asking 'Why'

24:25 Dealing with Inner Criticism

28:15 Embracing Self-Worth

32:33 The Importance of Community

36:12 Improv and Personal Growth

40:27 Final Thoughts and Advice

About the Guest:

Jeff Jolton

A husband, dad of two grown boys, a life-long consultant, improv actor, dog lover and cat owner. Been in Buffalo now over 10 years - the longest I've ever lived anywhere. Went to college at Lawrence University (Psychology) and got my PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Ohio University, and have worked as a consultant most of my career - helping organizations with leadership development, employee engagement, and workforce transformation. My work has allowed me to travel around the country and the world - I've been a lot of places, but haven't seen a lot (hotels, offices, and board rooms) but exposed to a range of cultures, people, and dynamics.

@jajolton on Instagram

About the Host:

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 34: Dine Like a Boss: Mastering Self-Advocacy at Restaurants

Jenny Leckey — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0400

"Not only is it about taking the action, but it's also about the story that you tell yourself before, during, and after these types of experiences." - Jenny Leckey

In this episode, Jenny tackles the challenges for people pleasers in a restaurant setting. She shares her personal journey after being diagnosed with celiac disease and how it forced her to advocate for her dietary needs.

Jenny provides practical tips on how to start small by asking for what you need in a dining experience, emphasizing the importance of taking up space and asserting oneself. Whether it's requesting a different dressing or sending food back, Jenny encourages listeners to practice self-advocacy and celebrate their successes. She ends with a personal challenge for you to start taking people pleaser recovery steps when you dine out.

00:00 People Pleasing at Restaurants

00:41 Personal Experiences with Celiac Dietary Needs

02:00 Overcoming People Pleasing at Chipotle

04:05 Practical Tips for Advocating Your Needs

06:47 Your Two Week Challenge

Want to be a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 33: Jessie's Journey with Inner Wisdom, Sobriety, and Self-Reflection as a Recovering People Pleaser

Jenny Leckey — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0400

"Every time you say yes to yourself, you're just getting a little bit closer to your authentic self, and the closer you get to that, the more amazing this time on this earth will be." - Jessie Mancuso

In this episode, Jenny hosts a heartfelt conversation with Jessie Mancuso, a yoga and meditation teacher from North Buffalo, NY. Jessie shares insights on tapping into inner wisdom, the transformation yoga has brought into her life, and the importance of giving yourself the option to make new choices.

They explore themes of authenticity, self-reflection, and the power of meditation. Jessie also opens up about her experience with sobriety, the impact of saying no to people pleasing, and the significance of building a relationship with oneself through daily self check-ins and purposeful solo time.

00:52 The Concept of Inner Wisdom

02:02 Struggles with People Pleasing

04:40 Breaking Free from Alcohol

12:55 Yoga Off the Mat: A Way of Life

15:52 The Power of Saying Yes to Yourself

21:04 Navigating the Emotional Slide

22:07 Embracing Growth and Authenticity

23:57 The Power of Honest Conversations

25:21 Daily Habits for Personal Growth

26:04 Listening to Your Inner Wisdom

31:32 Understanding and Honoring Your Needs

32:18 The Importance of Self-Care

37:23 The Healing Power of Meditation

Resources Mentioned:

The Radiance Sutras: 112 Gateways to the Yoga of Wonder and Delight by Lorin Roche

Instinctive Meditation with Lorin Roche

About The Host:

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Mentioned in this episode:

April Spiritual Retreat

Join us for our Spring 2025 Women’s Spiritual Retreat: Connect with the Power of the Universe. Friday, April 11 - Monday, April 14, 2025 Designed with spiritual women in mind, this Canandaigua, NY cozy getaway is centered around the power of astrology, meditation, and kirtan yoga to connect with the universe. We'll focus on the healing power of the universe for your mind, body and spirit via a variety of workshops, 1:1 sessions, and curated experiences. More info: https://www.meditatewithjenny.com/spring-retreat.html#/

Ep 32: Paying Attention: How a Fever Taught Me Life's Real Lesson

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0400

“What you focus on, you're paying for. When you're paying your attention, is it reaping the benefits? Are you getting the reward out of it?" - Jenny Leckey

In this episode, Jenny shares the story of how of dealing with a severe cold & fever led to a profound realization about the importance of paying attention to what truly matters.

She discusses how being forced to slow down and rest stripped away the unnecessary stress and people pleasing tendencies that often burden our lives. Jenny dives into the concept of 'paying attention' and explores how our focus, energy, and mindset are like currency, urging listeners to evaluate whether their attention is truly serving their highest good. This episode encourages reflection on daily habits, people pleasing behaviors, and the true value of where we direct our life force energy.

00:12 The Impact of Illness on Perspective

01:40 The Concept of Paying Attention

02:54 Evaluating the Worth of Your Attention

03:52 People Pleasing and Energy Management

05:31 Self-Reflection and Personal Growth

07:43 Practical Tips for Mindful Attention

10:23 Next Steps

About the Host

Want to be a guest on the show? Email Jenny - info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Mentioned in this episode:

April Spiritual Retreat

Ep 31: Social Media Influencers Don't Know More Than You: Flipping the Script on Learning

Jenny Leckey — Sat, 11 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0400

“We're moving away from the hierarchy of 'The teacher knows and the student is learning.' “ - Jenny Leckey

In episode 31, Jenny discusses the importance of tuning into yourself rather than seeking external validation. Jenny explores how people often look outside themselves for answers on social media, especially on platforms like TikTok, and how this is slowing down the healing process.

She emphasizes that true wisdom comes from within- when you learn something new on your healing journey, it's really awakening dormant knowledge and intuition you had all along.

Jenny speaks about the link between people pleasing and abandoning one's true self, explaining how reconnecting with your inner self can lead to personal growth and healing.

Through meditation and self-awareness practices, listeners can begin to recognize those 'aha' moments that resonate with their inner truth that's been there all along. Jenny encourages her audience to reflect on what this episode awakens within them and to share their experiences.

00:18 Seeking Answers Within

01:43 The Journey of Remembering

03:05 Internal Discernment vs. Confirmation Bias

03:52 Awakening Dormant Knowledge

06:07 People Pleasing and Self-Connection

07:33 Integrating New Knowledge

09:57 Practical Steps to Self-Awareness

10:47 Conclusion: Embrace the Aha Moments

About The Host

Want to be a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 30: Childhood Trauma, Toxic Workplaces, and Finding Self-Worth: An Interview with Tracie Groves

Jenny Leckey — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0400

"I realized that if I say no to someone and it's going to make them not love me, then they probably don't."- Tracie

In this insightful episode, Jenny has a conversation with Tracie, a self-described recovering people pleaser, who shares her deep and personal journey of overcoming a lifetime of people pleasing.

Tracie delves into how her childhood trauma in an abusive household wired her to strive for the approval of others. She also discusses the impact of a toxic workplace where her people-pleasing tendencies were manipulated, leading to severe health issues. Through therapy and self-reflection, Tracie found her self-worth and provides practical advice on setting boundaries and healing. Key themes include childhood trauma, toxic workplaces, and finding self-worth.

Jenny and Tracie also share useful tools, books, and concepts to aid you on your healing journey.

00:33 Childhood Struggles and People Pleasing

04:32 Defining People Pleasing

11:50 Workplace Challenges

16:05 Quitting and New Beginnings

20:42 The Fear of Letting Go

23:25 Techniques for Anxiety Relief

26:17 The Power of Saying No

30:37 Overcoming People Pleasing in Academia

33:43 Resources for Recovery

36:26 Embracing Self-Worth

38:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Books Mentioned in the Podcast:

How to Stop Breaking Your Own Heart by Meggan Roxanne

Not Nice by Dr. Aziz Gazipura

No Mud, No Lotus by Thich Nhat Hanh

About The Guest:

Tracie Groves

I’m a recovering people pleaser. At 50, I reached my rock bottom and quit my job of almost 20 years, went back to school and did the hard work through therapy, meditation, and journaling to heal and finally live my best life.

About the Host:

Want to be a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 29: Ditch the To Do List - Focus on Your "Goodbye" List Instead

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0400

“"It's like the devil, you know, Right? It's the comfort, you know.” - Jenny Leckey

In this episode, Jenny discusses her transformative six-month coaching program with her Ayurveda coach, Dawn. She delves into the importance of saying goodbye to habits and relationships that no longer serve us, especially in the context of people pleasing.

Jenny shares her personal journey, including past experiences with depression, friendship breakups, and finding out she has celiac disease. She emphasizes the need to create space for new, healthy habits by releasing old patterns and poses the critical question to listeners: What are you ready to say goodbye to?

00:00 Introduction to My Ayurveda Journey

00:24 The Struggle with Habit Change

01:09 Connecting Habit Change to People Pleasing

01:58 Saying Goodbye to People Pleasing

03:36 A Painful Goodbye: Ending a Friendship

07:08 Discovering the Root Cause of Fatigue

09:18 The Importance of Saying Goodbye

10:03 Reflecting on What to Say Goodbye To

12:32 Conclusion: Embracing Change

Check out more about Ayurveda with Dawn

Want to be a guest? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 28: Improv Permission Slip to Take Up Space- My People Pleaser Revelation

Jenny Leckey — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0400

"Underneath all the people pleasing, underneath all the molding yourself to make other people feel comfortable, underneath all of that protective layer is your true essence, and people can see it."- Jenny Leckey

In this episode, Jenny recounts a transformative lesson during an improv class years ago. She shares how her improv teacher saw that she wasn’t taking up space on stage, instead worrying about everyone else (classic covery people pleasing). He encouraged her to do the opposite - that she was allowed to take up space. This eye-opening advice encouraged her to start changing this habit in other areas of her life.

Jenny reflects on how being open to feedback and receiving new perspectives from others can lead to significant self-discovery and change. She discusses how having a growth mindset is key as well as being open to feedback in order to grow and change.

00:00 Introduction: A Pivotal Improv Moment

01:57 The Lesson: Taking Up Space

03:51 Reflection: The Impact of Words

05:56 Conclusion: Embracing Growth

Want to be a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 27: Workplace Boundaries, Self Acceptance, and Religious Upbringing & Guilt with Jen Cunningham

Jenny Leckey — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0400

"When you start realizing that everything is just a reflection of a person whether it's a good thing or a bad thing, it's just it's them. It's not you." - Jen Cunningham

In this episode, Jenny welcomes Jen for a deep dive into overcoming people pleasing. They discuss the challenges of people pleasing in both professional and personal settings, including workplace dynamics, religious influences, and familial pressures. Jen shares her personal journey, highlighting pivotal moments like setting boundaries, dealing with difficult friendships, and embracing self-care routines.

The conversation touches on practical strategies for improving self-awareness and self-worth, such as practicing meditation, internal family systems (IFS) work, and implementing soft boundaries in the work place. Make sure to listen to gain insights and actionable advice for anyone grappling with people pleasing.

Check It Out:

00:00 Introduction and New Beginnings

00:09 The Challenges of Training New Employees

00:47 The Jenny and Jen Show

00:57 Names and Identity

02:18 People Pleasing at Work

03:33 Childhood and People Pleasing

04:10 Religious Influences on People Pleasing

05:27 Self-Awareness and Personal Growth

07:11 Setting Boundaries at Work

14:27 Navigating Friendships and Boundaries

18:04 Embracing the Full Human Experience

18:16 The Myth of Toxic Positivity

18:42 The Power of Feeling Emotions

19:05 Navigating Emotional Boundaries

20:07 Accepting Neurodivergence

20:56 Personal Responsibility in Emotional Management

24:50 The Importance of Self-Care Routines

26:27 Meditation Practices and Benefits

30:49 Healing Through Internal Family Systems

33:17 Breaking Generational Patterns

34:02 Concluding Thoughts and Advice

About the Host

Be a guest on the show- email Jenny info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 26: Channeled Message from Mary Magdalene: How to Handle Heavy Emotions through Self Care This Holiday Season

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0400

"When you're tapping into this divine feminine energy, this is creating a warm, insular space for yourself to be able to adhere to those boundaries." - Mary Magdalene

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser, Jenny brings forth advice for the holiday season through a channeled message from Mary Magdalene. The message includes Mary Magdalene's wisdom on embracing divine feminine energy, creating a nurturing and cozy space for self-reflection, and preparing for emotional challenges that may arise during the holidays.

The episode specifically addresses the importance of self-care, especially for people pleasers, and offers tools to process emotions healthily without falling into old patterns of numbing or avoiding difficult emotions. Listeners are encouraged to foster a high-vibrational environment and establish a plan for navigating possible upheavals with grace and inner strength. Tune in to embrace Mary Magdalene's teachings on self-nurturing and growth for this holiday season.

00:00 Introduction and Purpose

00:38 Channeling Mary Magdalene

01:19 Embracing Divine Feminine Energy

01:49 Creating a Safe and Nurturing Space

03:44 Practical Tips for Self-Care

04:33 Avoiding Negative Coping Mechanisms

05:43 Maintaining High Vibrational Energy

07:21 Final Thoughts and Blessings

09:59 Conclusion and Personal Reflections

About the Host

Want to be a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 25: Family Dynamics, Caregiving, and Personal Boundaries: an interview with Kim

Jenny Leckey — Sat, 23 Nov 2024 12:15:00 -0400

"I feel like people pleasing with me is more being taken advantage of because I would give anyone the shirt off my back. I would, not anymore." - Kim

In this episode, Jenny chats with Kim White-Lopez about her people pleaser recovery journey. Kim, an improv comedian, actress, and paranormal investigator, delves into her personal experiences with people pleasing, beginning from a young age while caring for her terminally ill mother. They discuss how family dynamics impact people pleasers and how she navigated setting boundaries and starting to heal despite the demand of being a caregiver for sick family members.

They explore the nuances of setting boundaries, the impact of people pleasing on relationships, and the challenges that come with setting boundaries with loved ones. Alongside, Kim shares intriguing anecdotes from her paranormal investigations and how it intertwines with her journey of overcoming people pleasing.

The episode wraps up with an inspiring note on taking care of oneself through a meaningful song lyric recommendation from 'Garden Party' by Ricky Nelson.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

00:24 Paranormal Investigations and Experiences

04:03 People Pleasing and Personal Stories

04:37 Family Dynamics and Caregiving Challenges

06:34 Boundaries and Self-Care

12:31 Friendships and People Pleasing

14:43 Defining People Pleasing

15:38 Being Taken Advantage Of

16:40 The Cost of People Pleasing

17:29 Personal Transformation and Self-Care

18:31 Weight Loss Journey and Self-Discovery

20:32 Bias and Treatment Based on Appearance

22:37 Setting Boundaries in Personal and Professional Life

26:16 The Importance of Authenticity

29:55 Final Thoughts and Advice

Show Mentions:

"Garden Party" by Ricky Nelson (Stone Canyon Band)

Want to be a guest on the show? Email Jenny! info@meditatewithjenny.com

About The Guest:

Kimberly White-Lopez (“Kimber Lee”)

@MunchKim0929 on Instagram

Kimberly's Facebook page

Kim was originally born in Fort Rucker, Alabama on a military base, but she was raised in Buffalo, NY for almost her entire life. She used to joke with her Dad and give him a hard time about her mom giving birth in a “tent,” until he drove her all the way to Alabama in 2008 to show her the small hospital where she was born.

Kim currently holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Nursing and a minor in Psychology, and she has worked in the medical field for 18+ years: 14 of those with a focus in mental health providing psychiatric care to children, adolescents, and adults. Kim also has experience working as a Teacher’s Assistant, providing education and care to children with ASD and other developmental disorders requiring specialized needs. She says these individuals really hold a special place in her heart.

When not working, Kim enjoys acting in front of the camera, as well as on the stage. She has been a TV/film actor since 2006 and has rejoined the scene again more recently in 2019. Kim has appeared in over a total of 33 films, television shows (i.e. American Idol, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Restaurant Impossible, Nick Groff’s Death Walker series, etc.), and music videos. She can be seen featured on major platforms including but not limited to: AMC, IFC, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, etc. Kim is also an improvisational comedian and the Co-Founder, Producer, Operations Manager, Artistic/Creative Director of Cheese & Slackers, her independent long form improv team. Cheese & Slackers performs once a month at Rohall’s Corner in Buffalo, NY, so be sure to catch one of their shows soon!

When not on stage herself, Kim enjoys watching local theatre and musical productions and has had season tickets to Shea’s Performing Arts Center in Buffalo, NY with her wife for 15 years now. She is also a movie nerd and is obsessed with anything related to the Wizard of Oz. On a scarier note, Kim is an avid paranormal investigator (alongside her wife), and has been since 2018. She has visited 17 different haunted locations (multiple times) in Western New York and the surrounding areas, even some as far as West Virginia. She also owns enough paranormal equipment to open a small storefront.

Kim enjoys traveling, cruising, horseback riding, meditation, swimming, roller coasters, music, and spending quality time with her friends, wife, and dog. Kim is a spiritual individual and considers herself a psychic, as she has had multiple experiences connecting with spirit. If ever possible, Kim says she would be a mermaid if she could because of the peace she feels when surrounded by water. Maybe that’s also because she’s a Pisces, through and through.

About The Host:

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 24: Handling Emotional Turmoil- a Pep Talk & Some Self Care Tips for These Crazy Times!

Jenny Leckey — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 17:30:00 -0400

"Are you going to be like Violet Sorrengail? Are you going to learn the lessons before the battle comes and then be the leader and be able to objectively respond to conflicts using the tools that you learned?"- Jenny Leckey

In this episode, Jenny shares her recent personal experiences of dealing with nervous system dysregulation, emotional upheaval, and the challenges of people pleasing.

She discusses the importance of meditation, Reiki, and mindfulness practices in maintaining mental and emotional stability. Jenny also highlights how setting boundaries and practicing self-care have transformed her approach to stressful situations. Listen to learn more about effective strategies for managing stress and not people pleasing during times of immense stress.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Struggles

00:33 Understanding Nervous System Dysregulation

01:59 Coping Mechanisms and Spiritual Practices

04:54 Setting Boundaries and Self-Advocacy

05:34 People Pleaser Recovery Journey

09:06 Practical Tips for Emotional Well-being

09:35 Book Recommendations and Conclusion

Want to be a guest? Email Jenny! info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 23: My Book Nerd Tattoo Exposed My People Pleasing Habits at Work

Jenny Leckey — Sun, 03 Nov 2024 19:15:00 -0400

"I remember going to my office and thinking, I can't believe I just f*cking copped out."- Jenny, during her people pleaser days

In this episode of Ep 23: My Book Nerd Tattoo Exposed My People Pleasing Habits at Work , Jenny shares her lifelong love of reading and how it led to a pivotal moment of self-expression through a 'book nerd' tattoo (and a subsequent people pleaser aha moment).

Jenny discusses the struggles of being a people pleaser as a middle and high school English teacher, particularly in a district with strict no-visible-tattoo policies. She reflects on her journey of overcoming fear and resentment tied to people pleasing, advocating for self-expression, and finding her voice. She offers practical tips such as daily meditation to combat people pleasing tendencies and encourages everyone to embrace their true selves.

She asks you to really ponder the question: Are you willing to stand up for yourself? Do you feel worthy of standing up for yourself?

Want to be a guest and share your story? Email me: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 22: Life of a College Student: Setting Boundaries, Mental Health Tips, and Honoring Your True Self - an interview with Kyai and Angel

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

"True freedom is owning who you are, unfiltered, unapologetic, and fiercely confident." - Kyai

"People pleasing should not be meant for self soothing." - Angel

In this episode, Jenny puts on her previous high school English teacher hat and reconnects with her former students, Angel and Kyai, who are now navigating their senior year of college. They discuss the concept of being a people pleaser and how it’s impacted their lives as college students and as people who are neurodivergent (ADHD-focused tips included in this episode!)

Angel, who is studying psychology with a pre med concentration, shares his journey to understanding people pleasing and setting boundaries. He shares interesting facts connecting healing with brain science and how to create new habits effectively.

Kyai, a music therapy student, talks about combining her love for music and helping people, while also overcoming her own people pleasing tendencies. She shares ways that music and meditation can help foster healing within ourselves.

Their conversation delves into the challenges of breaking free from ingrained habits, the importance of self-awareness, and practical techniques for managing emotions and setting boundaries. They also talk about cultural norms and social expectations that feed the need to people please. Kyai and Angel share their unique perspective as Gen Z college students while touching on their generation’s culture of self awareness and the importance of mental health.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

The Psychology of Your Twenties Podcast
Dr. Joe Dispenza meditations
"Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself" - included with premium Spotfiy memberships!
Binaural beats - here's an article about them
Mel Robbins on TikTok
Follow Jenny on social media

About The Guests:

Kyai Ward

Kyai is a 21-year-old Music Therapy vocal major at Charleston Southern University. She is passionate about equality and justice, serving on the queer youth approval board for Charleston’s LGBTQ foundation, “We Are Family.” Alongside her studies, Kyai teaches piano and voice, and she will soon be completing her internship with Charleston Music Therapy LLC.

Kyai 's Facebook page, @Trippihippie405 on Instagram

Angel Rivera

Hi my name is Angel Rivera. I’m an undergraduate student at the University of South Carolina studying Psychology with a Pre-Med concentration. I indulge in my studies as I find power and solitude in knowledge. New experiences are always fulfilling and I love learning new things. Studying the patterns within the world around me helps me understand the patterns within myself.

@angelr7654 on Instagram

About The Host:

Interested in being a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 21: Archangel Gabriel Channeled Message- People Pleasing and Your Self-Healing Process

Jenny Leckey — Sat, 26 Oct 2024 17:00:00 -0400

"You are born worthy of the life that you desire, the experiences you wish to encounter, and likewise, you are worthy of growth and healing." -Archangel Gabriel channeled by Jenny Leckey

In this episode, Jenny delivers a channeled message from Archangel Gabriel who offers advice for healing from people pleasing. This message is directly from AA Gabriel - a special gift for you on your healing journey✨

AA Gabriel's message emphasizes the importance of self-worth, inner connection, and mindfulness. AA Gabriel advises listeners to avoid punishing themselves for their choices, to cultivate an authentic connection between their human and spiritual selves, and to embrace stillness and self-awareness as a means of healing. He delves into different ways of viewing why people fall into these patterns in relationships and how to start to change to allow for the life experiences that you desire (and deserve!).

Tune in for a unique perspective on people pleasing and how to begin to heal at a deeper and more rapid level.

Jenny Leckey is a Reiki Master Teacher and a channel for spirit. For individual sessions, please reach out via email: info@meditatewithjenny.com.

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Want to be a guest? Email Jenny! info@meditatewithjenny.com.

Ep 20: What Is Meditation and How Do I Start? A Beginner's Guide for People Pleasers

Jenny Leckey — Sat, 26 Oct 2024 00:15:00 -0400

"Meditation brings stillness and peace into your life. It literally rewires your brain so that you see the world in a different way."- Jenny Leckey

In this episode, Jenny explores the power of meditation and how it can help you stop from being a people pleaser.

She addresses common misconceptions about meditation, highlights various styles such as EFT tapping, guided meditations, and mantra meditation, and explains how meditation helps in becoming an observer of thoughts and emotions.

As a certified Chopra Center meditation teacher, Jenny shares her personal experience and offers practical advice for starting a meditation practice to bring peace and stillness into daily life. Discover how meditation can help you respond rather than react, set boundaries, and find calm amidst chaos!

After listening, you’ll have an easy way to start meditating right away.

Interested in personalized help? Jenny offers 1:1 meditation guidance sessions. Send her an email to get started: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Insight Timer app

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 19: Who Is Deciding Your YES? People Pleaser Relationship Advice

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

"Everyone else, especially in romantic relationships, they were the yes. I was the really go with the flow, accommodating 'mother hen' girlfriend. " - Jenny Leckey

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser, Jenny dives into the heart of people pleasing- the word YES!

Who is saying your yes? She explains the need to ask yourself daily if your decisions are driven by a true 'yes' or by guilt, shame, or others' expectations. She gives tangible advice on how to start this new habit with journaling.

She highlights the negative impact of inauthentic YES on relationships, using her experience of dating a gamer who neglected her needs. The episode encourages reflection on daily habits to ensure your choices prioritize your own needs and desires. Consistent reflection and incremental changes in behavior can lead to significant personal growth and well-being.

About the Host:

Want to be a guest? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 18: Wedding Planning, Five Brothers and Friendship Breakups: an Interview with Megan

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser, Jenny explores the journey of overcoming people pleasing with this week's guest, Megan. You’ll hear from Megan about how she navigated the challenges of planning her wedding amidst family expectations and social pressures. She talks about how people pleasing played a role in her wedding planning experience - and how she handled some difficult conversations!

They discuss the role that anxiety plays in people pleasing and how to manage it.

Jenny shares practical techniques like meditation to manage anxiety and set boundaries. If you're looking to start meditating - she walks you through two mantra meditations that you can start with.

Additionally, they discuss the emotional complexities of friendship breakups, balancing personal happiness with external pressures, and how our childhood experiences shaped our people pleasing habits (especially Megan, who grew up with 5 brothers!)

Plus, a mini book talk in the middle since we are both avid readers!

Books Mentioned:

Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
ACOTAR series by Sarah J. Maas
Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas
Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
Run for your Midlife (Good to the Last Death series) by Robyn Peterman

About the Guest

Megan Heimbueger

I’m a pet sitter and artist!

About the Host

Interested in being a guest? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 17: Master the Art of Not Taking Things Personally- Book Spotlight with The Four Agreements and Buddhist Bookcamp

Jenny Leckey — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Making assumptions and taking things personally are probably some of the two biggest shifts that we can make internally. - Jenny Leckey

Book Spotlight Episode!

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser, Jenny shares life changing concepts that were game changers in her starting to overcome people pleasing while enhancing her spiritual growth.

She draws from the book, The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz and insights from Timber Hawkeye and his book, Buddhist Boot Camp.

Jenny discusses the importance of learning to not taking things personally and using practical tools to maintain personal boundaries. These strategies offer guidance for spiritual beings navigating human experiences, focusing on managing guilt, setting boundaries, and empowering listeners to focus on their internal needs.

This is a must listen for folks who are ready to start HEALING and want to get rid of guilt, shame and anxiety over saying no. It’s time for you to take up space by using these teachings!

BOOKS:

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

Buddhist Boot Camp by Timber Hawkeye

About the Host:

Interested in being a guest? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 16: Mindful Healing & Setting Personal Limits: An Interview with Liliana

Jenny Leckey — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 12:00:00 -0400

"Rejection is a redirection to help you find your actual tribe, the people who will love you and accept you just the way that you are." - Liliana

In this episode ofDiary of a Recovering People Pleaser, Jenny has a heart-centered conversation with Lil (Liliana), who shares her transformative journey of overcoming people pleasing tendencies.

The conversation explores how what we often learn as children reinforce these behaviors in adulthood. Lil shares techniques she's used to reparent herself to heal. Lil recounts pivotal moments in her healing journey, including her decision to separate from her husband and her crucial realization of the importance of setting personal boundaries without explanation. She discusses how therapy illuminated her people pleasing patterns.

They emphasize the importance of self-care, reparenting your childhood wounds, and embracing imperfections on the road to recovery.

Tips like journaling and meditation are shared alongside inspiring stories, including a significant incident involving a magical story of messages from loved ones who have passed on. If you believe in signs from Spirit, then this story will touch your heart.

This episode urges listeners to recognize their own behavior patterns, highlighting the power of self-realization and grace in the healing journey.

Books:

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents by Lindsay Gibson

About the Host

Interested in being a guest? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 15: The Power of Mindset: Change Your Life by Embracing Synchronicities

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser, Jenny shares her secret to experiencing synchronicities and awe-filled moments: an intentional mindset.

She shares a story about how being “ stuck” behind a slow truck on the back roads of North Carolina turned into a memorable moment involving a sunrise and country field, turning an initially frustrating situation into a moment of awe.

Emphasizing the importance of changing your perspective, Jenny offers practical tips for building this habit, such as setting reminders on your phone and journaling small moments. She explains how this practice goes beyond gratitude, aiming to create new neural pathways and a deeper appreciation for life. Tune in to learn how this mindset can help start healing your people-pleasing tendencies.

About the Host

Interested in being a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 14: Goals Are Killing Your Growth: A New Approach To Change

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Join Jenny in this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaseras she challenges the traditional concept of goal-setting, sharing personal stories of her career path and experiences with goal manifestation. She talks about the importance of being open to new ideas, opportunities, and experience that can inevitably lead to a shift (or ditching) of goals.

Jenny invites you to consider a different perspective on achieving goals by loosening the reins and embracing the unpredictability of life's journey. What are you missing out on because you have tunnel vision about how the goal is supposed to unfold?

How you view goals has a direct impact on your people pleaser healing journey Learn how this mindset shift can aid in healing people-pleasing tendencies and lead to a more fulfilling, present-focused life.

Want to be a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 13: Part 2:: Workplace Stress, Burnout, and People Pleasing: An Educator's Point of View with Meredith Ritchie

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

"When it comes to people pleasing, in reality, it's so many assumptions... In theory, you could go around and say, are these the expectations you have for me? And they'll probably say, no, I just want you to be you." - Meredith Ritchie

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser , Jenny and Meredith dive into the concept of people pleasing at work, specifically in the world of education. As former educators, they discuss their personal experiences with people pleasing leading to burnout and other challenges.

**Even though the focus is on educators, the themes resonate with various other professions - so make sure to give it a listen!

Sharing personal stories, Jenny and Meredith reflect on their experiences, Jenny as an English teacher and Meredith asa media specialist, having worked together in a smaller school environment.

They talk about their struggles with administrative expectations, understaffing, and the culture of fear surrounding education. Jenny brings up the importance of setting boundaries and saying no, while Meredith discusses her actions against book bans. The episode aims to offer insights and support to fellow educators and professionals dealing with similar pressures.

About the Guest

Meredith Ritchie

Meredith Ritchie is a GRITS (girl raised in the South) who is continually exploring what is truly important in life; this can be such a messy and rewarding process. She loved being a school librarian for 11 years and is currently enjoying being a Registered Behavioral Therapist.

About the Host

Interested in being a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Ep 12: Part 1: Navigating Perfectionism, Career Transitions, and Romantic Relationships as a People Pleaser: a Conversation with Meredith Ritchie

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

"Stop making assumptions. In small print: don't assume I'm a bitch for putting this on my car, but also I don't care." - Meredith Ritchie (her bumper sticker)

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser, Jenny chats with Meredith about her personal people pleaser journey, touching on themes of childhood, family dynamics, and the struggle with people pleasing in relationships. Listen to Meredith talk about her upbringing in the Christian South, her experiences in school growing up, her personal realizations in college, and roles she assumed in her family.

They discuss the struggle and stress that people pleasers feel when leaving a career or job, especially one that involves acts of service (like their time in education). Jenny and Meredith share relatable stories of how they worked through it all and how you can prepare to take a leap of faith of your own.

You will hear stories about dealing with 'unhelpful' emotions, her discovery of being demisexual and how that related to people pleasing based on what was expected of others in the dating world. She delves into strategies she uses for navigating life with a perfectionist mindset. Meredith shares techniques that have helped her set boundaries and practice clear communication at work and at home.

Don't miss part two, where both Jenny and Meredith discuss people pleasing in the workplace, particularly in education.

About the Guest

About the Host

Interested in being a guest? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 11: Your Success Is Inevitable (A Pep Talk For When You're Having Doubts)

Jenny Leckey — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

"It's not about the end goal because you already know that's guaranteed. It's about the choices you make in every moment."- Jenny Leckey

It's time for a pep talk! In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser , we are focusing on your vision and goals for your life. Feeling some doubt? Imposter Syndrome? Second guessing yourself? This episode is for YOU!

Jenny talks about how mindset determines the journey you experience. The story you tell yourself and the expectations you set will either make or break your spirits.

Save this episode to revisit whenever you need a cheerleader in your court!

Interested in being a guest? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 10: Overcoming Childhood People-Pleasing & Parental Expectations: A Conversation with Glynn Couch

Jenny Leckey — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

"People pleasing is lack of boundaries with ourselves. When you change that, you feel like you're shifting the whole lay of the land." - Glynn Couch

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser , Jenny has an in depth conversation with Glynn Couch, a licensed clinical social worker (and Jenny’s former therapist!). They discuss a variety of people pleasing aspects, including the heaviness of managing others' emotions, the importance of setting boundaries as well as the true purpose of boundaries in relationships.

Glynn opens up about her personal journey, sharing poignant memories from her college years and how trying to avoid saying no out of fear of disappointing others forced her to confront her fears. She also talks about how people pleasing shows up in her life, especially in relation to seeking approval and guidance from her father. She offers up actionable advice on starting small and building the confidence to prioritize your own needs without feeling selfish.

Additionally, they explore Glynn's own recent experiences with ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and how it can aid in reshaping thought patterns for people pleasers. Glynn now offers ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and is accepting new clients. The last portion of the podcast is dedicated to explaining what it is, what to expect, and why it might be the missing piece to your healing puzzle!

About the Guest:

Glynn Couch

I am Glynn Couch, a licensed Clinical Social Worker and Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor in New York State. As the CEO and Founder of GC Counseling, a private mental health practice in Amherst, NY, I bring over a decade of experience in the mental health field to support individuals in their healing journeys. My professional background includes community mental health, substance abuse treatment, corrections-based mental health, and emergency room social work. I am trained in various therapeutic approaches, including EMDR Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solutions Focused Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues.

Glynn's Website

@gc.counseling on Instagram

Glynn's Facebook page

About the Host:

Interested in being a guest on the show? Email Jenny Leckey: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 9: Turning Storms into Miracles: The Power of Changing Your Story

Jenny Leckey — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

“People pleasing is abandoning yourself for a story that disempowers you.” - Jenny Leckey

In this inspiring episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser , Jenny takes you on a journey where a seemingly stormy day at the beach turns into a powerful lesson about perspectives and everyday miracles. She shares her personal story of how driving a rented convertible at the beach and narrowly avoiding thunderstorms became a metaphor for life.

She challenges you to reframe your stories and view uncomfortable situations as opportunities for growth. Find the miracles in the storms of your life and you'll be on your way to healing - and finding more and more miracles coming your way.

You’ll discover how shifting your perspective can help you start healing from the habit of people pleasing and align with your authentic self. It all starts with the stories we tell ourselves. Change your story, change your life.

What I mentioned:

No Mud, No Lotus by Thich Nhat Hanh

About the Host:

Interested in being a guest on the show? Email Jenny Leckey: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 8: Live in the Now- How to Reclaim Your Power to Heal

Jenny Leckey — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

""You have the freedom of choice. You have the freedom of deciding the direction of your focus, and you have the freedom, therefore, of deciding the direction of your life." -Jenny Leckey

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser , Jenny talks about the healing power of being truly present in the moment. Inspired by Eckhart Tolle's book The Power of Now, she explores how focusing on the now can reduce stress about future worries and combat incessant, habitual thoughts.

By observing and choosing thoughts deliberately, you can reshape your experience and find freedom. Dancing pygmy goats make an appearance as does meditation, as she recounts ways that she stays present in the moment to show you how shifting focus can instantly change your emotional state. This practice is crucial for healing people-pleasing tendencies and is a transformative saying she lives by.

Interested in being a guest on the show? Email Jenny Leckey: info@meditatewithjenny.com

About the Host:

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 7: Authenticity, Anxiety Relief, and a Sprinkle of Stoicism: an Interview with Sonia

Jenny Leckey — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

"Imagine you're deathbed, looking back on your life. You're thinking about the things that mattered. 'Swear to God, it's not going to be whether or not you pissed off someone at Trader Joe's!” - Sonia Merkel

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser, Jenny has in a candid conversation with Sonia Merkel about the challenges and strategies of overcoming people-pleasing. Sonia shares her personal experiences, from over-apologizing at work to being a mom balancing self-care and family duties.

They explore practical tools such as naming emotions, the benefits of physical exercise, and embodying authenticity without fear of conflict. They also delve into Stoic philosophy and how it helped Sonia heal people pleasing tendencies as well as ease anxiety and stress.

Learn how to reclaim your authentic self in relationships and everyday interactions. This episode emphasizes self-awareness and taking meaningful steps toward personal growth and healthier social dynamics.

Things We Talked About:

About the Guest:

Sonia Merkel

Artist, bread enthusiast, gardener.

@Shm_illustration on Instagram

Sonia's Website

About the Show:

Interested in being a guest on the show? Email Jenny Leckey: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Jenny's offerings: Reiki healing sessions (distance or in person/Buffalo, NY), Reiki certification classes, channeled psychic readings. Visit her website.

Ep 6: Reframing 'Lazy': Embrace 'Soul-Full' Living

Jenny Leckey — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

"Instead of laziness, let's call it coming back to your soul: being 'soul-full' ". - Jenny Leckey

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser , Jenny talks about disliking the word 'lazy' and explains how it is centered around the need to always be busy and doing things you “should” do (a sneaky sister of people pleasing).

She challenges the negative connotation of the word by suggesting it is a form of guilt rooted in people pleasing. Jenny shares her vision of 'soul-full' living – connecting with your true self and balancing it with daily activities.

Through this reframing, she encourages you to find peace and balance, minimizing the need for 'crashing' days. This approach, rooted in mindfulness and balance, aligns with principles of Reiki and self-care and aims to heal the habit of people pleasing. If you take care of yourself, then you can take better care of other areas of your life!

🌊This episode was recorded at the beach - enjoy the sound of the waves and seagulls in the background!

About the Host:

Interested in being a guest on the show? Email Jenny Leckey: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 5: Putting Myself in the Equation: Prioritizing Self-Care To Heal People Pleasing

Jenny Leckey — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

"Transforming my fear from losing people to losing myself has been the biggest shift in my healing journey. I finally put myself into the equation." - Jenny Leckey

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser , Jenny shares her journey of prioritizing her own well-being to help her stop being a people pleaser. She explains how she used to fear losing relationships but has shifted to fear losing herself in those relationships. By de-centering others 24/7 and focusing more on her own needs, she argues that self-care improved ability to serve others.

Practical steps such as setting boundaries and implementing a nightly routine of self-care are discussed, as well as recognizing and addressing feelings of guilt and 'shoulds' in decision-making. Jenny emphasizes self-awareness and taking small steps to prioritize personal well-being.

If you're looking for a practical way to start your healing journey, this episode is a good place to start.

Interested in being a guest on the show? Email Jenny Leckey: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Nasya Oil (Ayurveda) - Here's the oil I use for my sinuses every night.
Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!

Ep 4: Breaking Free from Codependency & Low Self-Esteem: an Interview with Caitlin Steitzer

Jenny Leckey — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

"You can give a hundred percent. And that is 50% of the relationship." -Caitlin Steitzer

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser , Caitlin Steitzer joins Jenny to discuss the topic of people-pleasing from her unique POV as a licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and improv performer.

They explore personal experiences, the psychological and societal underpinnings of people-pleasing, and the importance of healing your sense of self-worth. Caitlin shares insights on radical self-acceptance, codependency, and how classism and body image contribute to people pleasing tendencies.

They also touch upon the value of boundary setting and the potential for personal growth through acknowledging and managing strong emotions. Caitlin explains what codependency and how it's related to people pleasing.

The conversation includes practical affirmations and a discussion on cultural influences, offering listeners a nuanced perspective on recovering from people pleasing.

Mentioned in this episode:

Founder of Emotionally Focused Therapy - Dr. Sue Johnson - For more info about Emotionally Focused Therapy.
The Body Is Not An Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love — Sonya Renee Taylor - This is the book we mentioned - highly recommend the audiobook version read by the author!

About the Guest:

Caitlin Steitzer

CAITLIN STEITZER is a licensed clinical social worker whose work focuses on building community and fostering confidence in people from all walks of life. Currently in private practice, she has over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and specializes in trauma, confidence, and body image issues. She is also a performer and teacher of improv comedy at Buffalo Improv House, and her research on the connections between improv and social work was published in the Journal for Social Group Work in 2010. When not nerding out about mental health she can be found hanging out with her dog and her husband, riding her bike, or creating dance music playlists. If you would like to work with her, please check out www.caitlinsteitzertherapy.com for more information or to schedule a free consultation.

Caitlin's Website

About the Host:

Interested in being a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Jenny's offerings: Reiki healing sessions (distance or in person/Buffalo, NY), Reiki certification classes, channeled psychic readings. Visit her website.

Ep 3: Tolerate the Tension - The Key to Heal People Pleaser Habits

Jenny Leckey — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

""Tolerating the tension means really being in tune with your body and your mind-body connection, taking a step back and observing what comes up." - Jenny Leckey

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser , Jenny dives into the concept of tolerating tension and how crucial it is for overcoming people-pleasing tendencies.

She discusses the importance of being in tune with your mind-body connection, and recognizing your own scale of tension levels. If you know what send you over the edge, then you can work with tension in smaller doses to build up your ability to manage those difficult emotions.

Jenny shares personal stories about her experiences with tension in building her business and provides practical examples of breaking down large tension-inducing tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

You'll learn what habit stacking is and how it can help you stop people pleasing in a more easeful way. By practicing sitting with 'mini-tensions' consistently over time, you can rewire your brain and gradually build stronger boundaries.

Jenny emphasizes that growth comes through baby steps and incremental progress, not by forcing yourself into "big tension" situations. She leaves you with options on how to get started on your people pleaser healing journey right now. Just take it one moment at a time!

Interested in being a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser

Ep 2: Conquering People Pleasing at Trader Joe's

Jenny Leckey — Sun, 15 Sep 2024 05:45:00 -0400

"I'm going to have slip ups. Shrek says that we are like onions with many layers, as is our people pleasing healing journey." - Jenny Leckey

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser, Jenny shares a personal story about how her quest to find oat milk creamer at Trader Joe's helped her confront and navigate her people-pleasing ways!

She describes the internal and external challenges she faced when asking for help - let's just say it involves bells ringing and Jenny wanting to melt into the floor ;) The story is centered around encouraging you to push through your discomfort and ask for help in your own life.

Want to be a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Ep 1: What Is People Pleasing?

Jenny Leckey — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 12:00:00 -0400

"People pleasing means you've been giving away your trust to other people. You trust in other people. You're just worrying about what they feel, and you trust that if they make a decision, okay, I'll just go along with it. That's not trusting yourself."-Jenny Leckey

In this episode of Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser , Jenny talks about how she defines people pleasing in a different way than you might have heard in therapy or seen online.

She dives into how the habit of people pleasing comes from looking outside yourself for guidance instead of trusting your inner guidance system. Jenny also shares how it all connects to your spiritual side and your higher self. She gives easy steps to start listening to your own intuition to make your own soul- aligned choices instead of always trying to make others happy.

Change won’t happen overnight, but consistent small steps can lead to big improvements. Tune in to learn easy steps you can implement today to stop abandoning yourself and start feeling stronger and more confident!

Interested in being a guest on the show? Email Jenny: info@meditatewithjenny.com

Work with Jenny - Book 1:1 Reiki or psychic channeled reading sessions. Offered virtually or in person in Buffalo, NY. Jenny also offers Reiki certification classes!