Starfish Diaries

No more chasing gold stars

Liz McKean Season 1 Episode 9

In this episode, I explore why reaching out for support can feel uncomfortable, especially for people who grew up believing they had to be independent, endlessly capable, and effortlessly successful to have value. I open up about my lifelong chase for “gold stars” through external validation, and how that mindset led me away from authenticity and toward performance.

We dive into self-trust, vulnerability, nervous system safety, and what it takes to build genuine relationships without losing yourself in people-pleasing. If you’ve ever struggled with accepting help, feared being a burden, or felt like you had to earn your worth, this conversation will resonate deeply.

Learn more at LizMcKean.com. You can also connect with me on Instagram @starfishyoga, or send me an email at Liz@LizMckean.com. I'd love to hear from you!

All my love and gratitude for this podcast's beautiful cover design, created by the very best & most magical Mo Houston of JoyScout Studio

And podcast production/editing masterfully done by Sean Gritters. You can reach Sean by emailing seangritters@gmail.com