For Real: Life, Leadership, & Unlearning

Megan Gillikin
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For Real is a top 1% podcast for high-achievers who look successful on paper but feel like they’re one group text away from burning it all down. Hosted by Megan Gillikin - serial entrepreneur, business coach, keynote speaker, and recovering people pleaser - this show explores burnout, boundaries, identity shifts, and the brave act of unlearning who you thought you had to be. With unfiltered conversations, “I thought it was just me” moments, and just enough humor to keep it from feeling like group therapy, For Real is your permission slip to evolve. Formerly Weddings for Real - and glow-ups look good on us.

  1. 329. Social Media Hot Takes: What Works Now & What’s Overrated with Shannon McKinstrie Part 1

    4 DAYS AGO

    329. Social Media Hot Takes: What Works Now & What’s Overrated with Shannon McKinstrie Part 1

    If social media has started feeling like a full-time job you didn’t sign up for, this episode is for you. I’m joined by social media strategist Shannon McKinstrie for a rapid-fire conversation on what’s actually working right now — and what’s completely overrated. This chat was so good and so packed with tangible advice, we had to split it into two parts. Get ready for Hot Takes on trends, reels, and content that truly connects. Episode Timestamps: 00:05:00 – The most overused trend on Instagram (and why you should sometimes use it).00:07:00 – The "random thought reel" idea that always works when you are stuck.00:13:00 – The worst advice you see about growing on Instagram.00:15:00 – When to take down content that tanks (and why).00:18:00 – The key language shift: Moving from "How To" to "How I."About Shannon McKinstrie:  Website: https://shannonmckinstrie.com/Podcast: Good Content - https://shannonmckinstrie.com/good-content-podcastLet's Work Together:Book a 90-Minute Clarity Call Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault—your go-to resource for wedding pros who want to grow, connect, and thrive. If you're looking for expert education, a supportive community, and real-talk guidance to elevate your business, come join us inside The Vault. We’d love to have you! For Real on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forrealwithmegan/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ForRealPodcast Hosted by Megan Gillikin, For Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Walk West. The Next Chapter VIP Experience: January 12, 2025 in Cary NC - https://www.megangillikin.com/2026-next-chapter-vip-experience

    26 min
  2. 328. Leadership: When Caring Turns Into Carrying (and Why It’s Costing You)

    22 OCT

    328. Leadership: When Caring Turns Into Carrying (and Why It’s Costing You)

    This episode is for you if you tend to struggle with caring too much as a leader. If I had to guess, I'd say that your caring too much has started to feel a lot like carrying too much. You're the one holding the emotional and operational weight of everyone - clients, team members, family, and friends. What started with the best intentions of leading has become the exhausting burden of managing everyone else's emotional load. Megan shares the startling truth behind this pattern, including the data showing why women leaders report far more exhaustion than men. We unpack the true costs of this habit - physical, mental, and financial - and why over-functioning actually keeps your business small and your profits smaller. This is an invitation to recognize the difference between caring (your superpower) and carrying (a burden). You'll learn how to lead with empathy without sacrificing your peace and how to manage the temporary discomfort of setting boundaries in exchange for long-term peace. In this episode, you'll learn to ask: What is the cost of my emotional labor, and why is my body keeping score?Why does over-functioning keep my business small?How can I stop "fixing" everything and start developing my team?How can I handle the pushback when I finally put the weight down?Episode Timestamps: 00:04:00 – The emotional load: Why we make ourselves uncomfortable to make others comfortable.00:06:00 – The physical costs: What your body has been trying to tell you.00:08:00 – The financial & career cost: Why over-functioning keeps your business small.00:11:00 – Simple scripts to practice boundaries with your team and clients.00:13:00 – The messy work: Dealing with the pushback that comes with change.00:14:00 – The final invitation: What would it feel like to put some of that weight down?Let's Work Together:Book a 90-Minute Clarity CallJoin Our In Person VIP CEO Day Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault—your go-to resource for wedding pros who want to grow, connect, and thrive. If you're looking for expert education, a supportive community, and real-talk guidance to elevate your business, come join us inside The Vault. We’d love to have you! For Real on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forrealwithmegan/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ForRealPodcast Feeling the pull to pause and realign? Join me October 27–30 in Ocean Isle Beach, NC for my Restore & Realign Retreat, only a few spots left! Reserve yours here: https://www.theplannersvault.com/restore-realign-retreat-application Hosted by Megan Gillikin, For Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Walk West. The Next Chapter VIP Experience: January 12, 2025 in Cary NC - https://www.megangillikin.com/2026-next-chapter-vip-experience

    21 min

  3. 8 OCT

    327. The Secret to Building Credibility and Referrals Like a Badass with Alison Fragale

    This episode is for anyone who has ever hesitated to talk about their accomplishments because they don't want to come across as "too much." Today we welcome Alison Fragale, organizational psychologist, professor, and author of Likable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Deserve, to challenge and unlearn the outdated beliefs that keep us quiet, small, and overworked. Alison uses behavioral science and practical strategies to show you how to be both authentic AND strategic. These two concepts are not mutually exclusive - they're actually powerful allies in your career.  In this episode, you'll learn about: The core formula for introducing your business that highlights your capabilities and proves you care (solving a problem).Why "hiding your successes" to appear humble actually kills connection and makes people question your relationship with them.How to use experimentation to practice assertiveness without being terrified (and the danger of socialized "good girl" beliefs).The skill of making people curious about you and the powerful difference between a monologue and a polite discourse.Why reciprocity rules relationships and how to use it to get people to naturally talk you up.Alison's framework for rewriting your story when you're in a "messy middle" or career transition.Why other promoters can brag on you in ways you can't brag on yourself, and how to motivate them to pick up the microphone.The simple, two-minute investments you can make daily to build your network (like providing easy, valuable help).The vital message: Authentic and strategic are not opposites.Episode Timestamps: 00:02:00 – Alison's work: Evolving to help women use behavioral science for confidence.00:04:00 – The struggle of self-introduction: How to talk about accomplishments without sounding boastful.00:07:00 – The common mistake: Hiding successes and why it damages relationships.00:11:00 – Using experimentation to lean into assertiveness.00:16:00 – Mastering the art of making people curious about you.00:21:40 – Advice for rewriting your story during a "messy middle" career transition.00:29:30 – The power of other promoters and the three ways to get them talking about you.00:36:00 – Simple ways to add value to your network within a five-minute bandwidth.00:48:20 – The final takeaway: Why "authentic and strategic" is your new mantra.About Alison Fragale:  Website: https://alisonfragale.com/ Book: Likable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Deserve Newsletter: The Upper Hand: Behavioral Science to Help Women Excel: https://alisonfragale.com/book/In-Person Event: Both Alison and Megan are speaking at the Women Lead NC event on November 13th in Raleigh, North Carolina. Grab your ticket here: https://ncchamber.com/event/women-lead-nc-raleigh/For Real on Social Media:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forrealwithmegan/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ForRealPodcastHosted by Megan Gillikin, For Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Walk West. The Next Chapter VIP Experience: January 12, 2025 in Cary NC - https://www.megangillikin.com/2026-next-chapter-vip-experience

    54 min
  4. 326. Life: The Secret to Traveling Often Without Breaking the Bank

    24 SEPT

    326. Life: The Secret to Traveling Often Without Breaking the Bank

    Are you ready to learn the secrets to travel hacking? Our guest today is Megan Lanford, founder of Points Too Paradise, and she's here to reveal how you can turn your everyday spending into incredible travel experiences.  I've dabbled in this world herself, and let me tell you, after listening to Megan, I have to admit I've barely scratched the surface.  It's time to stop leaving thousands of dollars in points on the table and start playing the game smarter. In this episode, you'll learn about: The biggest mistake entrepreneurs make and how a simple switch can earn you thousands of points.The secret to getting 2-3x the value out of your points by transferring them to airline and hotel partners.Open up multiple credit cards?How to use the "Player 2 Method" to double your points with a spouse or partner.The difference between flexible point cards (like Chase) and co-branded cards (like Hyatt or Southwest).Does travel hacking increase or decrease your credit score?The best credit cards to start with and which ones to avoidEpisode Timestamps: 00:02:00 – A personal story of using credit card points to travel six times a year.00:03:00 – The biggest mistake business owners make and how to fix it.00:05:00 – The secret to 2-3x your point value and how to transfer points.00:09:00 – Why one credit card may be holding you back and the strategy of opening new cards.00:11:00 – How to keep track of multiple credit cards with the Travel Freely app.00:19:00 – The Player 2 Method for doubling your points with a partner.00:25:20 – Blackout dates, family travel, and the complexity of booking with points.00:28:45 – Final advice for getting started and learning more.About Megan Lanford & Points Too Paradise: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pointstooparadise/ Travel Points Lounge - https://pointstooparadise.com/travel-points-lounge?am_id=megan5551 Card Concierge - https://pointstooparadise.com/card-concierge?am_id=megan1610 For Real on Social Media:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forrealwithmegan/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ForRealPodcastHosted by Megan Gillikin, For Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Walk West. The Next Chapter VIP Experience: January 12, 2025 in Cary NC - https://www.megangillikin.com/2026-next-chapter-vip-experience

    34 min
  5. 325. Leadership: The ROI of Rest: Why Breaks Make You A Better Boss

    10 SEPT

    325. Leadership: The ROI of Rest: Why Breaks Make You A Better Boss

    If you've been feeling like you're always going, always behind, and tackling a to-do list that literally never ends, this episode is for you.  We're joined by The Planner's Vault COO Gina Johnston for a candid conversation about a lesson both Megan and Gina had to learn the hard way: the ROI of rest. In a world that praises the hustle and a culture that makes us feel guilty for slowing down, Megan and Gina unpack why taking breaks isn't a luxury - it's a leadership strategy. They get real about what it's like to run on fumes, the toll that decision fatigue takes on high achievers, and how to build in more margin without losing momentum. This is a much-needed reframe, offering powerful insights and actionable takeaways to help you reset your nervous system, protect your energy, and come back to your business and life as a better, more present leader. In this episode, you'll learn about: The profound impact of decision fatigue on your brain and body.Why "doing it all" and being constantly busy can actually limit your business's growth.The emotional toll of always being "on" and how it leads to burnout, resentment, and a depleted mental state.The importance of a pattern interrupt to break out of unhealthy habits and cycles.The surprising way your "hustle culture" can put pressure on your team and lead to their own burnout.A simple litmus test to know when you are in a low-battery state and in need of rest.The ROI (return on investment) of rest and why your next big idea won't show up in survival mode.Practical, bite-sized strategies for rest, like creating a Monday and Friday "buffer," and the power of getting out of your "natural habitat."Episode Timestamps: 00:08:00 – The stat on daily decisions and the profound impact of "decision fatigue."00:10:00 – How we use our phones to avoid rest and the cycle of doom-scrolling.00:12:00 – The consequences of making big decisions when running on fumes.00:15:00 – The human, shared experience of feeling stuck in "quicksand."00:22:00 – The truth about why we're so anxious and depressed in today's fast-paced world.00:26:00 – The "low battery mode" litmus test for knowing when to rest.00:28:00 – How an intentional weekend away was the catalyst for Megan's second business.00:30:00 – The power of a pattern interrupt and getting out of your normal environment.00:32:00 – Modeling healthy boundaries for your team.00:37:00 – Practical, rapid-fire examples of rest for different types of people.00:41:00 – The challenge for you this week: finding a way to take an intentional break.Feeling the pull to pause and realign? Join me October 27–30 in Ocean Isle Beach, NC for my Restore & Realign Retreat, only a few spots left! Reserve yours here: https://www.theplannersvault.com/restore-realign-retreat-application For Real on Social Media:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forrealwithmegan/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ForRealPodcastHosted by Megan Gillikin, For Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Walk West. The Next Chapter VIP Experience: January 12, 2025 in Cary NC - https://www.megangillikin.com/2026-next-chapter-vip-experience

    45 min
  6. 324. Unlearning: Burnout, Motherhood, and the Midlife Awakening (How to Rewrite Success on Your Terms), with Sara Abernethy

    27 AUG

    324. Unlearning: Burnout, Motherhood, and the Midlife Awakening (How to Rewrite Success on Your Terms), with Sara Abernethy

    Today we welcome Sara Abernethy, a performer-turned-hospitalitarian who's navigating the challenges of burnout, motherhood, and partnership struggles. This conversation isn't just about business; it's about what happens behind the scenes. Sara gets candid about the identity shifts of being in the wrong role, the toll it takes when business and marriage collide, and the resilience it requires to step back, reimagine, and pursue joy again. If you've ever questioned whether the version of success you built is actually what you want, this episode gives you both the permission and the perspective to redefine it. In this episode, you'll learn about: Sara's journey from opera singer to restaurant owner and what it taught her about roles and identity.The painful reality of outgrowing a version of success you once chased.Why chasing "hard" as an entrepreneur can mask the ahas you need to hear.The surprising role that motherhood played in her "midlife awakening."Sara's rock-bottom moment and the powerful practice of asking, "What are we tolerating?"A step-by-step guide to "The Work" by Byron Katie, and how it helped Sara process resentment and find clarity in her relationship.How to pursue joy and delight in "tiny morsels" of your everyday life.The simple daily mantra that can help you find a sense of peace and pride in yourself.Episode Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Acknowledging that the life you built might not be what you want.00:02:00 – Sara's journey: from performer to hospitalitarian and entrepreneurship.00:05:00 – The identity shift from restaurant operator to CEO and the challenges it created.00:09:00 – Hitting a breaking point and feeling like a "huge failure."00:10:00 – How motherhood provided a necessary pause and led to an important realization.00:15:00 – The struggle of constant ideas and discerning between joy and survival.00:18:00 – A rock-bottom moment with her husband and facing the potential "fork in the road."00:22:00 – Processing resentment and using "The Work" to find a path forward.00:25:00 – Ascending to "founder land" and embracing the pursuit of joy.00:27:00 – The power of "her seat at the table" and the vulnerability of shared stories.00:36:00 – A final message: Why not everything you do has to be productive.00:38:00 – What Sara is most proud of in this season of her life.About Sara Abernethy:   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sara.abernethy/ Podcast: Her Seat at the Table (https://open.spotify.com/show/5rgHmPRjR3Nu8a4NcBdRR1) Holiday Caroling Group, Sleigh Bells: https://www.instagram.com/sleighbellesnc/?hl=enLocal to North Carolina? Visit Sara's Restaurants: Wye Hill Kitchen and Brewing & Glasshouse Kitchen Feeling the pull to pause and realign? Join me October 27–30 in Ocean Isle Beach, NC for my Restore & Realign Retreat, only a few spots left! Reserve yours here: https://www.theplannersvault.com/restore-realign-retreat-application For Real on Social Media:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forrealwithmegan/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ForRealPodcastHosted by Megan Gillikin, For Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Walk West. The Next Chapter VIP Experience: January 12, 2025 in Cary NC - https://www.megangillikin.com/2026-next-chapter-vip-experience

    44 min
  7. 323. Unlearning: The Habit of Abandoning Yourself to Keep the Peace, with Amber Rae

    13 AUG

    323. Unlearning: The Habit of Abandoning Yourself to Keep the Peace, with Amber Rae

    What happens when the life you've built no longer fits the person you've become? In this episode, Megan talks to Amber Rae, who shares her story of a profound unraveling that began with a single, eye-opening moment, leading her to confront the truth about her marriage, her career, and the beliefs she had held for years.  If you've ever felt that quiet pull to make a change but has been too afraid to follow it, you'll want to tune in. In this episode, you'll learn about: Why we are conditioned to choose others' happiness over our own—and the deep-seated fear behind it.The dangerous trap of "self-abandonment" and how it masquerades as self-love.The difference between your intuition and the noisy voices of fear and expectation.A powerful journaling practice to help you discern which voice is speaking to you.Why we often try to fix our external circumstances (our jobs, our home) instead of facing the truth about what needs to shift internally.How to borrow courage from the categories in your life where you already feel confident.The crucial reframe: walking away from something you've outgrown is an act of leadership, not selfishness.Episode Timestamps: 00:03:00 – The pivotal moment that sparked Amber's unraveling.00:05:00 – Why the unraveling is happening to so many women right now.00:08:00 – The connection between Amber's personal journey and her new book, Lovable.00:10:20 – The messy reality of healing and why it's not a linear process.00:19:00 – The difficult question: Is it self-love or self-abandonment?00:23:25 – The realization that we often "self-abandon" in one area of life but not others.00:28:00 – How to discern the voice of intuition from the noise of fear.00:31:30 – A powerful journaling practice for listening to your internal voices.About Amber Rae:  Website: https://www.amberrae.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyamberrae/ Book: Loveable by Amber Rae: https://www.amazon.com/Loveable-Womans-Path-Good-Free/dp/1250809339For Real on Social Media:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forrealwithmegan/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ForRealPodcastThis episode was edited and produced by Walk West and is brought to you by Megan's online membership site for wedding pros, The Planner’s Vault. Feeling the pull to pause and realign? Join me October 27–30 in Ocean Isle Beach, NC for my Restore & Realign Retreat, only a few spots left! Reserve yours here: https://www.theplannersvault.com/restore-realign-retreat-application The Next Chapter VIP Experience: January 12, 2025 in Cary NC - https://www.megangillikin.com/2026-next-chapter-vip-experience

    42 min
  8. 322. Leadership: Scaling, Simplifying or Selling: Finding Your Next Move in Business

    30 JULY

    322. Leadership: Scaling, Simplifying or Selling: Finding Your Next Move in Business

    Today we're talking about that moment so many high-achieving business owners encounter:  "What's next?" You’ve built something you're proud of, but a shift is happening. Maybe you’re craving more ease, simplicity, impact, or space and rest. The conventional wisdom tells us growth equals success, but the truth is, success gets to look different in every season and for every person. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is pause and redefine what success means to you, right now. This episode is for entrepreneurs who have poured their time, sweat, and tears into building something meaningful, and are now asking deeper questions. For the first time, maybe it’s less about proving and more about peace. Megan shares her own journey through this "in-between" space and why this crossroads isn't a failure—it's an invitation. This isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, but a guide to help you get clear on what you truly want and choose a path that feels grounded, not forced. Let's Work Together:Book a 90-Minute Clarity CallJoin Our In Person VIP CEO Day Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault—your go-to resource for wedding pros who want to grow, connect, and thrive. If you're looking for expert education, a supportive community, and real-talk guidance to elevate your business, come join us inside The Vault. We’d love to have you! For Real on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forrealwithmegan/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ForRealPodcast Feeling the pull to pause and realign? Join me October 27–30 in Ocean Isle Beach, NC for my Restore & Realign Retreat, only a few spots left! Reserve yours here: https://www.theplannersvault.com/restore-realign-retreat-application Hosted by Megan Gillikin, For Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Walk West. The Next Chapter VIP Experience: January 12, 2025 in Cary NC - https://www.megangillikin.com/2026-next-chapter-vip-experience

    25 min
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For Real is a top 1% podcast for high-achievers who look successful on paper but feel like they’re one group text away from burning it all down. Hosted by Megan Gillikin - serial entrepreneur, business coach, keynote speaker, and recovering people pleaser - this show explores burnout, boundaries, identity shifts, and the brave act of unlearning who you thought you had to be. With unfiltered conversations, “I thought it was just me” moments, and just enough humor to keep it from feeling like group therapy, For Real is your permission slip to evolve. Formerly Weddings for Real - and glow-ups look good on us.

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