Scenic Route, Social Change and Mental Health Conversations for Perfectionists – Details, episodes & analysis
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Scenic Route, Social Change and Mental Health Conversations for Perfectionists
Jennifer Walter
Frequency: 1 episode/10d. Total Eps: 91

Forget the fast lane! The Scenic Route is where perfectionists slow down, get better, and create real change.
We explore:
- Mental health wisdom (minus toxic positivity)
- Social change (that starts from within)
- System critiques (with actionable solutions)
- Inner wisdom (over external validation)
- Mindfulness for minimalists (no crystals required)
Join Jennifer Walter, sociologist (MASoc UCC) and recovering perfectionist, for weekly conversations that blend critical thinking with oh-so-much compassion.
Whether you're questioning everything or trying to find peace amongst the chaos, you'll find space here for your inner voice, mindset, mental health, and collective change — you're in the right place. We make space for both personal healing and collective change — with a side of potty humour.
New episodes drop every Tuesday.
The longest way round is the shortest way home – and that's exactly why we're taking the Scenic Route.
Ready to walk the scenic route?
The view here is *chef's kiss.*
Recent rankings
Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.
Apple Podcasts
🇺🇸 USA - selfImprovement
01/02/2025#93🇺🇸 USA - selfImprovement
31/01/2025#89🇺🇸 USA - selfImprovement
30/01/2025#79🇬🇧 Great Britain - selfImprovement
22/01/2025#85🇺🇸 USA - selfImprovement
22/01/2025#82🇨🇦 Canada - selfImprovement
21/01/2025#100
Spotify
No recent rankings available
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Technical evaluation of the podcast's RSS feed quality and structure.
See allScore global : 78%
Publication history
Monthly episode publishing history over the past years.
Wild Kindness: Breaking Free from the 'Nice Girl' Trap
Season 7 · Episode 88
mardi 14 janvier 2025 • Duration 18:50
Are you exhausted from being everyone's emotional support human? In this game-changing episode, we're unpacking how being "nice" became a cage and why embracing wild kindness might be your key to freedom.
Drawing from bell hooks' radical vision of love and Pierre Bourdieu's social theory, we explore:
- How society weaponizes kindness against women
- The real cost of emotional labour in modern life
- Why "being nice" is a tool of social control
- How to practice fierce kindness without guilt
- Setting boundaries as an act of revolutionary self-love
Perfect for recovering people-pleasers, boundary-setting beginners, and anyone ready to redefine what kindness means on their own terms.
Join us on the Scenic Route.
_____________________________________________________________________
READY FOR YOUR SCENIC ROUTE?
Visit jenniferwalter.me — your cozy corner of the internet where recovering perfectionists come to breathe, dream, and embrace a softer way of living – while creating real change in their communities.
Keep the conversation going:
DAILY DOSE OF CHILL
Tap into your inner wisdom and let it guide you.
Need a gentle nudge in the right direction? The Scenic Route Affirmation Card Deck Deck is your online permission slip to trust your inner compass. Grab yours and let's see what wisdom awaits you today:
👉 Pull Your Daily Affirmation Card
LOVE THE SHOW?
If today's episode hit different, leave a rating and review. Your words help other wandering souls find their way to the Scenic Route.
2025 Astrology Report: The Death of Bro Marketing & Rise of Intuitive Business ft. Sheri Moise & Jen Fieldman
Season 7 · Episode 87
mardi 7 janvier 2025 • Duration 01:00:03
Ready for the great shift? 2025 isn't just another year – it's a total vibe shift for business and life. A once in a shift! Join me with astrology powerhouse Sheri Moise and intuitive business strategist Jen Fieldman as we decode the massive energetic changes coming your way.
In this episode, we spill the celestial tea on:
- Why Pluto in Aquarius means saying bye-bye to old power structures
- How North Node in Pisces is killing bro marketing (finally!)
- The rise of trust-first, intuition-led business models
- What multiple planetary shifts mean for your marketing strategy
- Practical ways to navigate 2025's transformative energy
- How these cosmic changes affect both the collective AND your personal chart
Whether you're astrology-obsessed, or just cosmic-sun sign is your wifi password, or you're just "can't hurt if I know this", we're surfing 2025's waves with grace, authenticity, and zero BS. My Gemini Sun and Rising is ready for some fun! We take you from the big picture collective shifts down to how these energies play out in individual birth charts.
Time Stamps
03:52] Pluto in Aquarius: The Big Shift
[13:36] North Node in Pisces: Marketing Revolution
[28:49] Navigating Multiple Planetary Shifts
[39:35] The Future of Business & Community
[45:28] Money & Resources in 2025
[51:08] From Collective to Personal
[56:18] Final Insights & Finding Your Path
Join us on the Scenic Route.
Featured Guests
Sheri Moise – Intuitive Business Astrologer
Website
YouTube
Jen Fieldman – Human Design & Business Strategist
Website
Instagram
_____________________________________________________________________
READY FOR YOUR SCENIC ROUTE?
Visit jenniferwalter.me — your cozy corner of the internet where recovering perfectionists come to breathe, dream, and embrace a softer way of living – while creating real change in their communities.
Keep the conversation going:
DAILY DOSE OF CHILL
Tap into your inner wisdom and let it guide you.
Need a gentle nudge in the right direction? The Scenic Route Affirmation Card Deck Deck is your online permission slip to trust your inner compass. Grab yours and let's see what wisdom awaits you today:
👉 Pull Your Daily Affirmation Card
LOVE THE SHOW?
If today's episode hit different, leave a rating and review. Your words help other wandering souls find their way to the Scenic Route.
Embrace the Unknown: Why Certainty is Overrated in Personal Transformation with Jessica Ell
Season 6 · Episode 78
mardi 1 octobre 2024 • Duration 58:48
Are you feeling stuck because you're afraid to make the "wrong" choice? Do you find yourself paralyzed by the need for certainty in your life decisions? What if embracing uncertainty could be the key to unlocking your true potential?
In this illuminating episode of The Scenic Route Podcast, host Jennifer Walter sits down with Jessica Ell, a Martha Beck-certified life coach specializing in helping people make hard decisions. Together, they explore the power of embracing uncertainty in personal growth and decision-making.
Key topics include
- The difference between clarity and certainty in life choices
- How family dynamics and societal expectations shape our decision-making
- Techniques for trusting your intuition and overcoming fear-based decisions
- The importance of willingness in facing life's challenges
- Finding joy and purpose beyond traditional success metrics
Key Takeaways
- Clarity, not certainty, is what you need to move forward in life
- Fear often disguises itself as practicality or responsibility
- Trusting your intuition is a skill that can be developed and strengthened
- Embracing non-linear paths can lead to unexpected growth and fulfillment
- Past regrets can be valuable data for making better future decisions
- Consistency is only valuable if it's aligned with what truly brings you joy
- Sometimes, the "good-on-paper" choice isn't the right one for you
Jessica shares invaluable insights on navigating life's crossroads, particularly when walking away from "good-on-paper" opportunities. She emphasizes the transformative power of embracing the unknown and trusting your inner guidance.
Whether you're facing a major life decision, feeling stuck in your career, or simply curious about personal growth, this episode offers practical wisdom for embracing uncertainty and living a more authentic life.
Join us for this thought-provoking discussion and discover how stepping off the beaten path can lead to unexpected personal transformation and fulfilment.
Connect with Jessica Ell
Website
Instagram
Her podcast Ill-Advised with Jessica Ell
Dive deeper
Hard decisions and fear of future regret go hand-in-hand. Take Jessica's Future Regrets Finder quiz and address regret head-on.
_____________________________________________________________________
READY FOR YOUR SCENIC ROUTE?
Visit jenniferwalter.me — your cozy corner of the internet where recovering perfectionists come to breathe, dream, and embrace a softer way of living – while creating real change in their communities.
Keep the conversation going:
DAILY DOSE OF CHILL
Tap into your inner wisdom and let it guide you.
Need a gentle nudge in the right direction? The Scenic Route Affirmation Card Deck Deck is your online permission slip to trust your inner compass. Grab yours and let's see what wisdom awaits you today:
👉 Pull Your Daily Affirmation Card
LOVE THE SHOW?
If today's episode hit different, leave a rating and review. Your words help other wandering souls find their way to the Scenic Route.
Sexual Awakening: Reclaiming Intimacy and Self-Love with Dominique D'Vita
Season 6 · Episode 77
mardi 24 septembre 2024 • Duration 01:04:16
Are modern media and societal norms sabotaging our understanding of pleasure, intimacy, and sexuality?
Join me as I chat with Dominique D'Vita, who challenges the miseducation of sexuality head-on. Dominique's holistic approach blends science and spirituality, helping us rediscover self-love and forge deeper connections.
From Tantra practices to practical tips for new parents, this episode is a journey of sexual awakening and personal empowerment.
Key Topics
- The miseducation of sexuality in modern society
- Tantra practices for self-love and intimacy
- Healing from sexual shame and trauma
- Bridging the orgasm gap in heterosexual relationships
- Parenting and sexuality: breaking the cycle of shame
- The connection between sexual energy and overall life force
Takeaways
- Pleasure is medicine: Learn how to use breath, sound, and movement to heal trauma and increase vitality.
- Self-love is the foundation: Discover why being your own best lover leads to better relationships.
- Communication is key: Tips for discussing intimacy with your partner and creating a safe space for exploration.
- Tantra for beginners: Simple practices to increase pleasure and connection in your daily life.
- Shame-free parenting: How to talk about sexuality with your children in a healthy, open way.
We can only meet someone else as deeply as we've met ourselves.
Dominique D'Vita
Don't miss this insightful episode on creating thriving communities! Subscribe, rate, and review the Scenic Route on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite platform.
Connect with Dominique D'Vita
Website
Instagram
YouTube
Next step
Ready to reclaim your intimacy and self-love? Take Dominique's free quiz at yestantra.com to identify your intimacy blocks and start your journey to sexual awakening!
_____________________________________________________________________
READY FOR YOUR SCENIC ROUTE?
Visit jenniferwalter.me — your cozy corner of the internet where recovering perfectionists come to breathe, dream, and embrace a softer way of living – while creating real change in their communities.
Keep the conversation going:
DAILY DOSE OF CHILL
Tap into your inner wisdom and let it guide you.
Need a gentle nudge in the right direction? The Scenic Route Affirmation Card Deck Deck is your online permission slip to trust your inner compass. Grab yours and let's see what wisdom awaits you today:
👉 Pull Your Daily Affirmation Card
LOVE THE SHOW?
If today's episode hit different, leave a rating and review. Your words help other wandering souls find their way to the Scenic Route.
The Productivity Myth: Courageous Insights to Thrive Without the Hustle feat. Elise Enriquez
Season 6 · Episode 76
mardi 17 septembre 2024 • Duration 55:47
Ready to shatter the productivity myth and reclaim your life? AND say Arrivederci to Hustle Culture – for good!
Join us for a transformative conversation with productivity coach Elise Enriquez as we courageously challenge the hustle culture mindset – and why we both hate the "you have the same 24 hours as Beyonce" meme. In this eye-opening episode, we explore a revolutionary approach to productivity that prioritizes meaningful progress over relentless doing.
Discover:
- Bold strategies to break free from societal expectations and 'Pinterest perfect' pressures
- Courageous ways to set boundaries and realistic goals without guilt
- Inspiring insights on staying present in both your personal and professional life
- How to use your visual senses in this really neat tactic to write better to-do lists
Elise shares her expertise on:
- Navigating the emotional landmines of shame and guilt in productivity
- Embracing authenticity and personal growth in a hustle-obsessed world
- Setting and defending your boundaries
- The surprising connection between productivity, spirituality, and feeling good
This isn't just another productivity hack – it's a brave new perspective on thriving in life and work. We dive deep into reclaiming your time, energy, and joy, offering actionable steps towards a more fulfilling existence.
Tune in to gain the courage to prioritize what truly matters and embark on your own scenic route to success. It's time to redefine productivity and embrace a life of authentic accomplishment and joy!
Connect with Elise Enriquez
Website
Instagram
LinkedIn
Listen to her podcast, The Productivity Shift
What’s Your Productivity Personality?
Take this 2-minute quiz to uncover your strengths (and snags) on the way to getting sh*t done—so you can accomplish your goals AND enjoy the journey.
_____________________________________________________________________
READY FOR YOUR SCENIC ROUTE?
Visit jenniferwalter.me — your cozy corner of the internet where recovering perfectionists come to breathe, dream, and embrace a softer way of living – while creating real change in their communities.
Keep the conversation going:
DAILY DOSE OF CHILL
Tap into your inner wisdom and let it guide you.
Need a gentle nudge in the right direction? The Scenic Route Affirmation Card Deck Deck is your online permission slip to trust your inner compass. Grab yours and let's see what wisdom awaits you today:
👉 Pull Your Daily Affirmation Card
LOVE THE SHOW?
If today's episode hit different, leave a rating and review. Your words help other wandering souls find their way to the Scenic Route.
Healing Through Shadows: Build Resilience and Embrace True Self-Acceptance with Shadi Sadeghi
Season 6 · Episode 75
mardi 10 septembre 2024 • Duration 01:05:36
What if the key to living an authentic, soul-led life lies in the shadows of our psyche?
On this episode of the Scenic Route Podcast, we're joined by Shadi Sadeghi, a certified life coach and Jungian psychology expert, who demystifies the profound journey of shadow work.
Ever wondered what it means if the same things keep on happening to you?
We peel back the layers of our unconscious mind using the metaphor of an iceberg to uncover how personal traits and internal conflicts shape our everyday experiences.
Shadi walks us through practical methods for integrating these hidden aspects into our conscious selves, ultimately guiding us toward self-awareness and wholeness.
Episode Highlights:
- Shadow Work Explained: Understand the concept of shadow work and its significance in achieving self-awareness and self-acceptance.
- Jungian Self: Explore the principles of Jungian psychology and how they relate to shadow work.
- Resilience Building: Learn how embracing your shadow self can build resilience and lead to a more authentic life.
- Relationship to the Self: Discover how early life experiences and parental relationships shape our self-perceptions and spirituality.
- Practical Techniques: Gain practical advice on integrating shadow aspects, writing down dreams, and enhancing personal growth.
"Shadow work is about taking accountability for our experiences and recognizing our power to change patterns." Shadi Sadeghi
Connect with Shadi Sadeghi
LinkedIn
Instagram
Work with Shadi
Free "Release Your Fears" meditation for any of your listeners who schedule a complimentary shadow work session with me to learn where they are unconsciously stuck! Book a complimentary shadow work session
_____________________________________________________________________
READY FOR YOUR SCENIC ROUTE?
Visit jenniferwalter.me — your cozy corner of the internet where recovering perfectionists come to breathe, dream, and embrace a softer way of living – while creating real change in their communities.
Keep the conversation going:
DAILY DOSE OF CHILL
Tap into your inner wisdom and let it guide you.
Need a gentle nudge in the right direction? The Scenic Route Affirmation Card Deck Deck is your online permission slip to trust your inner compass. Grab yours and let's see what wisdom awaits you today:
👉 Pull Your Daily Affirmation Card
LOVE THE SHOW?
If today's episode hit different, leave a rating and review. Your words help other wandering souls find their way to the Scenic Route.
Live Fully and Become a Better Leader: Authentic Integrity Made Actionable feat. Christine Lieu
Season 6 · Episode 74
mardi 3 septembre 2024 • Duration 48:15
What if you could lead your life, team or business with unwavering integrity, even under societal and cultural pressures?
Join us in this episode as we host Christine Lieu, the visionary founder of CL Designs and host of the Brand Party podcast. Christine shares her inspiring journey from a safe corporate job to becoming an adventurous, globe-trotting graphic designer.
Christine opens up about the internal battles she faced as a first-generation Canadian and how she discovered her "North Star" to guide her through challenging decisions and ultimately lead her to her true calling.
Together, we navigate the complexities of personal and business values, reflecting on the roles of efficiency, integrity, and celebration. We explore the true meaning of efficiency—intentional productivity over mere busyness—and emphasize the importance of celebrating progress, not just the end goal. Learn how surrounding yourself with supportive, like-minded individuals and embracing nature's cycles can help you plant seeds with intention and remain open to unexpected, beneficial outcomes.
In this episode, you will discover:
- Christine Lieu’s journey from a corporate job to becoming a global graphic designer.
- How Christine, as a first-generation Canadian, overcame internal battles to find her "North Star."
- The significance of personal and business values like efficiency, integrity, and celebration.
- Understanding efficiency as intentional productivity over mere busyness.
- The importance of celebrating progress, not just the end goal.
- How to surround yourself with a supportive, like-minded community.
- Embracing the cycles of nature for balance and planting seeds with intention.
"Are you absorbing other people's perceptions or projections of you, or is it really yours at the end of the day?" Christine Lieu
Don't miss this insightful episode on creating thriving communities! Subscribe, rate, and review the Scenic Route on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite platform.
Connect with Christine Lieu
Website
Instagram
Listen to her podcast, Brand Party
Work with Christinea
Download her Brand consistency checklist
_____________________________________________________________________
READY FOR YOUR SCENIC ROUTE?
Visit jenniferwalter.me — your cozy corner of the internet where recovering perfectionists come to breathe, dream, and embrace a softer way of living – while creating real change in their communities.
Keep the conversation going:
DAILY DOSE OF CHILL
Tap into your inner wisdom and let it guide you.
Need a gentle nudge in the right direction? The Scenic Route Affirmation Card Deck Deck is your online permission slip to trust your inner compass. Grab yours and let's see what wisdom awaits you today:
👉 Pull Your Daily Affirmation Card
LOVE THE SHOW?
If today's episode hit different, leave a rating and review. Your words help other wandering souls find their way to the Scenic Route.
Avoid Bore-Out: How to Thrive as a Multi-Passionate Professional with SaCola Lehr
Season 6 · Episode 73
mardi 27 août 2024 • Duration 56:43
Ever wondered how to juggle multiple passions and side ventures successfully? Or have you ever been shamed for your side hustle? Like you don't take it seriously enough?
Join us on the Scenic Route Podcast with our brilliant guest, SaCola Lehr, as we demystify the stigma around side hustles and redefine what it means to be a multi-passionate professional. SaCola opens up about her incredible journey from finance to education, inspired by her family's entrepreneurial legacy. Together, we brainstorm a more empowering term for "side hustle" and share invaluable advice on proudly embracing your diverse professional pursuits.
Key Takeaways:
- Dual Career Success and ByeBye Bore-Out: Discover strategies to thrive as a multi-passionate professional without burnout.
Side Hustle Alternatives: Learn why "side hustle" often carries negative connotations and how to reshape the narrative.
Career Fulfillment: Explore how embracing multiple roles can lead to greater job satisfaction and personal growth.
Work-Life Balance: Tips for juggling diverse professional pursuits while maintaining equilibrium.
Multiple Income Streams: Understand the benefits and challenges of diversifying your career and income sources.
"We need to stop feeling shame around the term 'side hustle' and start owning our multi-passions." SaCola Lehr
Don't miss this insightful episode on reframing your thoughts about your side hustle into a more powerful and serving narrative.
Connect with SaCola Lehr
Website
Instagram
Listen to her podcast, Work it, Live it, Own it!
Tune into my chat with SaCola about great branding
_____________________________________________________________________
READY FOR YOUR SCENIC ROUTE?
Visit jenniferwalter.me — your cozy corner of the internet where recovering perfectionists come to breathe, dream, and embrace a softer way of living – while creating real change in their communities.
Keep the conversation going:
DAILY DOSE OF CHILL
Tap into your inner wisdom and let it guide you.
Need a gentle nudge in the right direction? The Scenic Route Affirmation Card Deck Deck is your online permission slip to trust your inner compass. Grab yours and let's see what wisdom awaits you today:
👉 Pull Your Daily Affirmation Card
LOVE THE SHOW?
If today's episode hit different, leave a rating and review. Your words help other wandering souls find their way to the Scenic Route.
How to Build Thriving Communities: Championing Reciprocity and Equity with Becky Mollenkamp
Season 6 · Episode 72
mardi 20 août 2024 • Duration 50:07
What if embracing community could radically transform your mental health and personal growth?
Join me as I sit down with Becky Mollenkamp, an accountability coach and intersectional feminist, to unravel her inspiring journey from a childhood devoid of community to discovering its immense value after becoming a parent. Becky opens up about the often overwhelming challenges of motherhood and how finding supportive communities can alleviate self-judgment and societal pressures. Her insights shine a light on the pivotal role of community in nurturing our well-being and fostering meaningful connections.
Why tune in
- Community vs. Capitalism: Comparing nurturing communities to extractive, individualistic systems.
- Mutual Support and Equity: Balancing contributions to meet everyone’s needs over time.
- Consent and Contributions: Importance in business and personal relationships, challenging societal perfectionism.
- Inclusive Communities: The emotional labour involved and the risks Becky took to create welcoming spaces.
- Diversity and Hustle Culture: Red flags to watch out for in communities.
- Giving and Receiving: Misconceptions about altruism and the importance of teaching consent early on.
Don't miss this insightful episode on creating thriving communities! Subscribe, rate, and review the Scenic Route on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite platform.
Connect with Becky Mollenkamp
Website
Instagram
Join her substack
Listen to her podcast, Feminist Founders
_____________________________________________________________________
READY FOR YOUR SCENIC ROUTE?
Visit jenniferwalter.me — your cozy corner of the internet where recovering perfectionists come to breathe, dream, and embrace a softer way of living – while creating real change in their communities.
Keep the conversation going:
DAILY DOSE OF CHILL
Tap into your inner wisdom and let it guide you.
Need a gentle nudge in the right direction? The Scenic Route Affirmation Card Deck Deck is your online permission slip to trust your inner compass. Grab yours and let's see what wisdom awaits you today:
👉 Pull Your Daily Affirmation Card
LOVE THE SHOW?
If today's episode hit different, leave a rating and review. Your words help other wandering souls find their way to the Scenic Route.
Embracing Your Menstrual Cycle: Find Harmony and Well-Being with Dana Michelle Gillespie
Season 6 · Episode 71
mardi 13 août 2024 • Duration 01:04:25
Today, the incredible Dana Michelle Gillespie, founder of My Moontime, joins us to talk about all things menstrual health. In this episode, we dive deep into the female health realm, mainly focusing on the menstrual cycle and how it impacts our body and mind.
In this episode, we cover:
- Understanding the Phases: Learn about each menstrual cycle phase and how it affects your body and mind.
- Ancient Wisdom: Discover how ancient practices help you feel balanced and in tune with your body.
- Personal Insights: Jen shares her experiences with endometriosis and highlights the importance of informed consent in reproductive health.
- Holistic Approaches: Explore holistic methods like Mayan abdominal massage and other ancient practices.
- Practical Tips: Get actionable advice on aligning your cycle with the moon, nurturing yourself, and using manual cycle tracking.
Dana’s passion for dismantling the stigma around menstrual wellness is contagious, and you’ll leave this episode with a fresh, compassionate understanding of your body.
Why you should listen:
- The surprising ways each phase influences your body and mind
- Eye-opening truths about how society shapes our cycle perceptions
- Game-changing tips to boost your menstrual health and overall wellness
- The power of holistic approaches for radiant female health
- Exclusive insights from Dana's personal journey and expert guidance
By the end of our chat, you’ll feel equipped with actionable advice and a renewed perspective on embracing your menstrual vitality for enhanced overall well-being. Trust me, this is one conversation you don’t want to miss!
So grab your favourite cosy drink, settle in, and join us for an enlightening discussion on finding harmony and well-being through understanding your menstrual cycle.
Tune in now and start your journey to better understand and embrace your menstrual health. Subscribe, rate, and review the Scenic Route on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite platform.
Connect with Dana Michelle Gillespie
Website
Instagram
Work with Dana
Get the free My Moontime Starter Kit
_____________________________________________________________________
READY FOR YOUR SCENIC ROUTE?
Visit jenniferwalter.me — your cozy corner of the internet where recovering perfectionists come to breathe, dream, and embrace a softer way of living – while creating real change in their communities.
Keep the conversation going:
DAILY DOSE OF CHILL
Tap into your inner wisdom and let it guide you.
Need a gentle nudge in the right direction? The Scenic Route Affirmation Card Deck Deck is your online permission slip to trust your inner compass. Grab yours and let's see what wisdom awaits you today:
👉 Pull Your Daily Affirmation Card
LOVE THE SHOW?
If today's episode hit different, leave a rating and review. Your words help other wandering souls find their way to the Scenic Route.