Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser

Jenny Leckey
  • 5.0 (10)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED DAILY

Dive into heartfelt diary-style episodes and candid interviews that explore real world, authentic people pleasing stories and practical healing tools. Hosted by Jenny Leckey, a former English teacher turned Reiki Master and meditation guide, this podcast blends spirituality and psychology to help you break free from people pleaser patterns and embrace self-healing. Cozy up for deep, late-night sofa chat vibes as we touch on topics like Reiki, meditation, journaling, energy work, and more—offering guidance, comfort, and a dose of courage to transform your life. You're not alone on this journey. Let’s heal together!

  1. 07/23/2025

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

    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...

    47 min

  2. 07/22/2025

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

    “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 Copyright 2024 Jenny Leckey LLC Diary of a Recovering People Pleaser website

    15 min

  3. 03/12/2025

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

    "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! Copyright 2024 Jenny Leckey LLC

    43 min

  4. 03/11/2025

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

    "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! Copyright 2024 Jenny Leckey LLC

    9 min

  5. 02/07/2025

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

    "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! Copyright 2024 Jenny Leckey LLC 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#/

    43 min

  6. 02/05/2025

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

    “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! Copyright 2024 Jenny Leckey LLC 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#/

    13 min

  7. 01/11/2025

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

    “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! Copyright 2024 Jenny Leckey LLC

    13 min

  8. 12/23/2024

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

    "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! Copyright 2024 Jenny Leckey LLC

    41 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Dive into heartfelt diary-style episodes and candid interviews that explore real world, authentic people pleasing stories and practical healing tools. Hosted by Jenny Leckey, a former English teacher turned Reiki Master and meditation guide, this podcast blends spirituality and psychology to help you break free from people pleaser patterns and embrace self-healing. Cozy up for deep, late-night sofa chat vibes as we touch on topics like Reiki, meditation, journaling, energy work, and more—offering guidance, comfort, and a dose of courage to transform your life. You're not alone on this journey. Let’s heal together!

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