Inner Work With MaryAnn Walker: Life Coach for Empaths, Highly Sensitive People & People Pleasers

MaryAnn Walker
  • 4.9 (22)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Inner Work With MaryAnn Walker: Life Coach for Empaths, Highly Sensitive People & People Pleasers

Welcome to Inner Work with MaryAnn Walker! This podcast is here to support the empaths and the highly sensitive. I understand the struggles of these roles because I've been there, too. I've experienced the exhaustion, burnout, compassion fatigue, and self-doubt that can come from prioritizing others' emotions over my own. It is possible to deepen your own level of empathic sensitivity in a way that doesn’t leave you feeling drained or burned out, and I can show you how. In this podcast, we will discuss how to set boundaries, deepen your connection to self and others in a way that doesn't leave you feeling drained, learn how to process our thoughts and emotions, and so much more. Life coaching can be particularly beneficial for the highly sensitive. As a coach, I can provide personalized strategies to manage overwhelming feelings, help you develop personal resilience, and teach you how to maintain your emotional well-being all while helping you to better understand how your sensitivity is impacting you. Through life coaching, you can learn to harness your sensitivity as a strength, enabling you to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and confidence. Join me each week as we explore ways to meet your own needs and set clear boundaries in a way that honors your heart and also increases connection. Subscribe now!

  1. 168: Am I A Jerk Now? How to Set Boundaries Without Becoming the Villain

    2D AGO

    168: Am I A Jerk Now? How to Set Boundaries Without Becoming the Villain

    Send us a text If you've ever wondered, “Am I being too harsh?” or “Will people still love me if I stop people-pleasing?”—this episode is for you. Today, we're talking about the fear that setting boundaries means you're suddenly a terrible person. (Spoiler alert: you're not.) Whether you've swung from self-sacrificing to "spicy:" or you’re just learning how to say "no" without guilt, we’re unpacking why this discomfort is actually a sign of growth, not failure. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why helpers and people-pleasers often fear becoming "the bad guy"The real reason boundary setting can feel so uncomfortable at firstHow burnout can lead to sharper tones and what to do about itWhy overcorrecting is normal (and not permanent!)How to self-assess your boundaries without shameExamples of clear, respectful boundary statementsWhy disruption is part of healing—and how to ride the waveChallenge for the Week Practice one boundary this week—even if it’s wobbly. Then take 5 minutes to self-assess. Ask yourself: What went well?What could I improve next time?Did I lead with clarity or frustration?How was my tone?Did I communicate through clarity or emotional confusion?No shame. Just curiosity and growth. Work With Me Tired of feeling burned out and invisible? Ready to start being someone for yourself? Let’s build those boundaries—without burning bridges. I currently have a few one-on-one coaching spots available this month. You can schedule a free 20-minute consultation call here to see if we’re a good fit. I’d love to support you in reclaiming your time, your peace, and your power. Don’t Forget to Subscribe If this episode resonated, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. And if you're loving the podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d leave a review—it helps others like you find this space of healing and growth. Links Mentioned in This Episode Join the Waitlist for the Empath Course: Be the first to know when registration opens. Space is limited to 15–20 participants.Book Your Free Coaching Consultation Call: 20 minutes, no pressure—just connection, clarity, and support.Follow Me on Instagram for more tools, reminders, and inspiration.Follow Me on FacebookFollow Me on TikTokFollow Me on Youtube

    13 min
  2. 167: Are They Choosing You?

    JUL 3

    167: Are They Choosing You?

    Send us a text Are you choosing people who are also choosing you? Or are you pouring your time, energy, and heart into someone—hoping they’ll come around, hoping they’ll finally see your worth, hoping they’ll meet you halfway? This can show up in a lot of ways: Canceling your plans just in case they want to spend time with youKeeping yourself emotionally unavailable for someone who already walked awaySaying yes to every invitation from someone who wouldn’t do the same for youHolding out for a connection that only you seem to be investing inWhen we do this, we’re not just overgiving—we’re starving ourselves of real connection. It’s easy to believe that love has to be earned. That if we can prove our value, sacrifice enough, or just wait long enough, they’ll choose us. But people aren’t projects. And connection isn’t something you should have to beg for. So here’s your nudge to: 💛 Start noticing who lights up when you walk into the room. 💛 Start investing in those who already show up for you. 💛 Start saying yes to the people who say yes to you. Because love doesn’t require convincing. And real friendship doesn’t leave you guessing. You deserve more than crumbs. You deserve to be nourished by relationships that are mutual, steady, and safe. So take a breath. Do a little relationship audit. And make room for the ones who are choosing you—consistently and wholeheartedly. You are worthy of that kind of connection. Links Mentioned in This Episode: 🔗 Join the Waitlist for my Empowered Empath Course here:  https://maryannwalker-life.kit.com/93175104be Looking for more ways to engage? Come find me on my other platforms! Contact me: https://maryannwalker.life/contact-me Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannwalker.life/ Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryannwalker.life Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maryannwalker.life

    13 min

  3. JUN 26

    The One Tool That Changed My Life: Say What You Mean & Mean What You Say

    Send us a text If you’ve ever said “I’m fine” when you weren’t… If you’ve said “yes” when you wanted to scream “no”… If you’ve silently hoped someone would just know what you need… This episode is for you. We’ll explore how not speaking your truth leads to resentment, burnout, and disconnection—and how reclaiming your voice can create deeper trust not only in your relationships, but also within yourself. This conversation builds on Episode 160, where we talked about how staying silent can be the most dishonest thing we do. If you haven’t listened to that yet, I’ll link it below! What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why being “nice” at the expense of honesty leads to quiet resentmentHow saying “yes” when you mean “no” creates confusion and burnoutThe hidden cost of volunteering your energy to avoid discomfortWhat unspoken expectations and silent contracts really do to relationshipsHow to begin shifting from performing to being authenticWhy practicing honest communication builds trust and emotional safetyThe powerful shift that comes when you stop trying to be intuitively understood and start clearly expressing your needsChallenge for the Week Notice when your words and your energy don’t match. Ask yourself: Am I saying what I really mean? Or am I saying what I think they want to hear? Then practice one small moment of honest expression this week—without apology. Work With Me Feeling seen by this episode? Ready to stop people-pleasing and start living more honestly, grounded in who you actually are—not who you think others expect you to be? I’m now offering six-week coaching packages for empaths, HSPs, and recovering people-pleasers like you. I also have a beta group coaching program opening soon! This small group experience will help you manage your energy, set healthier boundaries, and reconnect with your intuition. Space will be very limited—just 15 to 20 spots. If you’re interested, join the waitlist here. Don’t Forget to Subscribe Make sure you’re following the show so you don’t miss future episodes filled with support, tools, and real-talk for empaths and sensitive souls. And if you loved this episode, please take a moment to share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps others find the show! Links Mentioned in This Episode Episode 160 – When Silence Is the Most Dishonest Thing You Can DoLinks Mentioned in This Episode:🔗 Join the Waitlist for my Empowered Empath Course here:  https://maryannwalker-life.kit.com/93175104beLooking for more ways to engage? Come find me on my other platforms! Contact me: https://maryannwalker.life/contact-me Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannwalker.life/ Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryannwalker.life Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maryannwalker.life

    18 min
  4. 165: Reclaiming Your Worth Beyond What You Give (Breaking Free of Transactional Relationships)

    JUN 19

    165: Reclaiming Your Worth Beyond What You Give (Breaking Free of Transactional Relationships)

    Send us a text You, my dear, are not a transaction. You are not worthy only for what you DO, but for who you ARE.  If you've ever felt loved only when you're helpful, useful, or emotionally available, this message is for you. True connection isn't about how much you give—it's about being accepted for who you are, even on your empty days. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why tying your worth to your productivity leads to burnout and imbalanceThe painful truth about conditional relationships and emotional laborHow over-giving creates relational deficits and fuels people-pleasing cyclesWhy emotional explosions and burnout are not signs that you're brokenHow to reconnect with your inner child and rewire your nervous system for worthinessA gentle invitation to shift from performance-based love to true connectionChallenge for the Week Take a moment to reflect on where in your life you may be performing for love or shrinking to stay needed. Journal on this prompt: "What would shift if I believed I was enough—even on my empty days?" Work With Me If you’re tired of being seen only for what you can give and you’re ready to feel safe, seen, and supported just as you are, I would be honored to walk beside you. My coaching is designed for empaths and highly sensitive people who are ready to unlearn survival roles and build something deeper. Visit my website or reach out to explore how we can work together. Don’t Forget to Subscribe If this episode resonated with you, be sure to follow the podcast so you don’t miss next week’s episode. And if you're listening on a platform that allows ratings or reviews, leaving a quick review helps more sensitive souls find this show. Links Mentioned in This Episode: 🔗 Join the Waitlist for my Empowered Empath Course here:  https://maryannwalker-life.kit.com/93175104beLooking for more ways to engage? Come find me on my other platforms! Contact me: https://maryannwalker.life/contact-me Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannwalker.life/ Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryannwalker.life Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maryannwalker.life

    10 min
  5. 164: The Johari Window: What You Know, Don't Know & Hide About Yourself

    JUN 12

    164: The Johari Window: What You Know, Don't Know & Hide About Yourself

    Send us a text Have you ever wondered why some parts of you feel invisible—even to yourself? Or why certain relationships feel so nourishing while others leave you drained? In today’s episode, we’re diving into the Johari Window: a powerful self-awareness tool that helps you understand what you show the world, what you keep hidden, what others see in you, and what’s still waiting to be discovered. This framework isn't just about insight—it’s about empowerment. When you learn to explore your blind spots and own your brilliance, you stop shrinking to fit and start standing in your full light. Let’s walk through the four windows of self-awareness and learn how to open up to deeper connection, authenticity, and healing. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The 4 quadrants of the Johari Window and how they shape your self-perceptionWhy blind spots aren't flaws—they're invitationsHow to gently reveal your “hidden self” without fear or shameWays to explore the “unknown self” and step into your full potentialHow this model can improve your relationships, boundaries, and emotional clarityChallenge for the Week Choose one trusted person and take turns sharing your answers to the following questions:  What is one thing you are celebrating right now? What are you working on?  How can I help?  These three questions can deepen your connection with each other while increasing self awareness.  Work With Me Ready to uncover your blind spots and live more authentically as a highly sensitive person or empath? My 6-week coaching containers are designed to help you move from emotional overwhelm to empowered clarity. Spots fill fast—message me today to reserve yours. Don’t Forget to Subscribe & Leave a Review! Make sure you're subscribed so you never miss an episode. And if this one resonated with you, take a moment to leave a review—it helps more empaths and HSPs find the support they need. Come find me on my other platforms! Learn more about coaching: https://www.maryannwalker.life Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannwalker.life/ Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryannwalker.life Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maryannwalker.life Join my email list and get a FREE GIFT! https://maryannwalker-life.ck.page/3da1fd88a9

    18 min

  6. JUN 5

    163: How to Reconnect With Your Intuition

    Send us a text Have you ever known deep down what the right decision was—but still found yourself analyzing it to death? Whether it’s a relationship, job, or life decision, intuitive people—especially empaths—often get stuck in their heads, trying to logic their way through emotions. In this episode, we’re diving into why that happens, how it disconnects you from your authentic self, and what you can do to break free from the cycle of overthinking and step back into trust. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 💡 Why intuitive people are especially prone to overthinking 💡 The difference between logical reasoning and inner knowing 💡 How ignoring your intuition can lead to decision paralysis and burnout 💡 Practical tools to clear mental clutter and reconnect to your intuition 💡 How to tell what’s your energy and what’s someone else’s 💡 The role of ego in blocking intuitive wisdom 💡 A personal story about trusting logic over intuition—and the consequences Challenge for the Week: This week, notice when you’re overthinking a situation. Pause and ask yourself: -Is this my intuition speaking… or my fear? -Am I tuning into my own feelings, or someone else’s energy? -What would it feel like to just trust my inner knowing right now? Journaling, meditation, and energy clearing can help you get clarity. Try the mantra: “What’s mine is mine. What’s yours is yours.” Work With Me: If you're stuck in the loop of overthinking and second-guessing your intuition, you're not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out alone either. I’d love to support you. Let’s hop on a call to see how my coaching tools can help you reconnect with your intuitive wisdom and start making aligned decisions with confidence. Click here to book your FREE consultation call! https://calendly.com/maryannwalkerlife/freeconsult Don’t Forget to Subscribe & Leave a Review! Make sure you're subscribed so you never miss an episode. And if this one resonated with you, take a moment to leave a review—it helps more empaths and HSPs find the support they need. Come find me on my other platforms! Learn more about coaching: https://www.maryannwalker.life Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannwalker.life/ Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryannwalker.life Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maryannwalker.life Join my email list and get a FREE GIFT! https://maryannwalker-life.ck.page/3da1fd88a9

    14 min
  7. 162: How to Stop Fixing, Controlling, and Over-Accommodating Everyone

    MAY 29

    162: How to Stop Fixing, Controlling, and Over-Accommodating Everyone

    Send us a text Healing the Fixer, the Controller, and the Victim: Trying On New Roles for Growth Sometimes the roles we’ve played in order to survive—like the fixer, the controller, or the victim—become so familiar that we mistake them for who we truly are. But what if those identities were never you? What if they were just survival strategies… and it’s finally safe to take them off? Today we explore how to recognize when these old roles are at play and how to shift into new, healing identities that support your growth and relationships. You’ll learn how to try on new ways of being like the accountability coach, the curious collaborator, and the hero—roles that are empowering, connected, and aligned with your healing. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to identify the “fixer,” “controller,” and “victim” roles when they show up in your lifeWhy these identities often develop as a way to create safety in unsafe environmentsHow to shift from the fixer to the accountability coach—supporting without enablingHow to transform from the controller into the curious collaborator—inviting trust and flexibilityHow to evolve from the victim into the hero—finding your power through choiceQuestions to help you reflect on which roles you tend to wear and what it’s time to releaseChallenge for the Week: Notice when one of your old roles starts to take over—like the fixer jumping in to solve something that isn’t yours to fix. Pause. Ask yourself: “What would it feel like to choose a new identity here?” Then take one small step into a healing role, even if it feels unfamiliar. Work With Me: Ready to release the roles that no longer serve you? My 6-week coaching package helps empaths and HSPs reclaim their energy, rewrite their inner stories, and step fully into who they’re becoming. If you’re ready to shift from survival to thriving, click here to book your FREE consultation call to get started!  Don’t Forget to Subscribe: Follow the podcast so you never miss an episode—especially if your platform recently changed how they show updates. Subscribing is the best way to stay connected. Learn more about coaching: https:maryannwalker.life Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannwalker.life/ Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryannwalker.life Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maryannwalker.life Join my email list and get a FREE GIFT! https://maryannwalker-life.ck.page/3da1fd88a9

    26 min
  8. 161: The Truth About That "Bad Feeling" You Just Can't Shake

    MAY 22

    161: The Truth About That "Bad Feeling" You Just Can't Shake

    Send us a text Here's the truth about that "bad feeling" you can't shake.. you know.. the one you had when you spiraled over that text, replayed a conversation 100 times, or felt a knot in your stomach and wondered—Is this my intuition warning me… or just fear playing tricks on me?  Today you’ll learn how to finally tell the difference between your inner wisdom and your old survival patterns—so you can stop second-guessing yourself and start building real trust with your own intuition. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why many highly sensitive people mistake fear for intuition—and what to do about itHow past trauma creates "false alarms" that feel very realThe physical differences between fear and intuition in your bodyWhy intuition feels calm and expansive—while fear feels tight and urgentHow fear often disguises itself as logic (“I’m just being realistic…”)5 practical tools to help you tell the difference between fear and intuition:The 10-second body checkThe 24–48 hour time testThe “Best Friend” perspective shiftJournaling to connect with your intuitionThe worst-case scenario exerciseHow to know when it’s a true intuitive nudge vs. emotional reactivityChallenge for the Week: Choose a current situation where you're feeling uncertain or emotionally activated. Apply the 10-second body check and ask: 💭 “If I say yes to this, how does my body feel?” 💭 “If I say no, what shifts inside me?” Then journal using the prompt: 🖊️ What does my intuition have to say about this? Let your body—not your fear—lead the way. Work With Me: If you're ready to stop living in your head and start living in alignment with your inner knowing, I’d love to support you. My coaching packages are designed for those who want to reclaim their energy, trust their intuition, and create balance in relationships. ✨ Curious? email me at maryann@maryannwalker.life and lets talk!  Don’t Forget to Subscribe: Don’t miss future episodes on emotional mastery, energetic boundaries, and deep healing. Follow the podcast so you never miss a chance to reconnect with your authentic self. Links Mentioned in This Episode: Learn more about coaching: www.maryannwalker.lifeFollow on Instagram: @maryannwalker.lifeFollow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryannwalker.lifeFollow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maryannwalker.lifeJoin my email list and get a FREE GIFT! https://maryannwalker-life.ck.page/3da1fd88a9

    18 min
See All (170)

4.9
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Welcome to Inner Work with MaryAnn Walker! This podcast is here to support the empaths and the highly sensitive. I understand the struggles of these roles because I've been there, too. I've experienced the exhaustion, burnout, compassion fatigue, and self-doubt that can come from prioritizing others' emotions over my own. It is possible to deepen your own level of empathic sensitivity in a way that doesn’t leave you feeling drained or burned out, and I can show you how. In this podcast, we will discuss how to set boundaries, deepen your connection to self and others in a way that doesn't leave you feeling drained, learn how to process our thoughts and emotions, and so much more. Life coaching can be particularly beneficial for the highly sensitive. As a coach, I can provide personalized strategies to manage overwhelming feelings, help you develop personal resilience, and teach you how to maintain your emotional well-being all while helping you to better understand how your sensitivity is impacting you. Through life coaching, you can learn to harness your sensitivity as a strength, enabling you to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and confidence. Join me each week as we explore ways to meet your own needs and set clear boundaries in a way that honors your heart and also increases connection. Subscribe now!

Information

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada