The Myth of “Making It” and the Magic of the Messy Middle with Laura Wheatley

What if the version of success you’ve been chasing isn’t actually what your soul needs? In this heart-opening conversation, I’m joined by my dear friend and former client, Laura — a radiant, real-deal human who knows both the ache of trying to “get it right” and the freedom that comes when you stop trying to perfect your way to peace. Together, we explore the tender terrain of the messy middle — the in-between season where nothing feels certain, but everything is shifting. We talk about the illusion of “making it,” and how perfectionism often hides behind our love of learning, achievement, or constant self-improvement. Laura shares what it’s looked like to reclaim joy, to trust her body’s signals, and to soften into being seen — without needing to be polished. We also wander into some delightfully unexpected territory: from the role of AI in creativity to how we perform healing even while longing to be held. In this episode, we explore: why “making it” is often just another form of pressure, the role perfectionism plays in learning, growth, and visibility, the difference between reaching from joy vs. reaching to prove, how to stay with yourself in the messy middle, what embodiment really looks like in seasons of change, and a gentle truth for anyone stuck in the loop of not-enoughness. This one’s for the woman who feels like she’s always becoming. Who’s tired of pretending she’s fine. Who’s ready to build a life that holds her — as she is, not as she should be. Let it land. Let it soften you. → Come say hi on Instagram: @lucy__maeve → Laura’s Website