In this episode, host Maggie sits down with her former professor, Cory Cunningham from the Leeds School of Business. With over 20 years of experience studying the human side of business, Cory helps us navigate the terrifying transition from the classroom to the real world where the rubrics don’t exist and the measuring sticks are always changing.

Together, they dive into why Perfect Girls struggle to find their voices once they leave the safety of academic evaluation and how to build a confidence that isn't tied to performance, but to identity.

Episode Topics

The Shift: Why the self-pressure of a high achiever becomes worrisome once there are no more grades to validate your worth.

The Success Angle: How your life can look impressive or lacking depending entirely on which angle you choose to view it from.

The Spotlight Illusion: Cory’s favorite insider secret: nobody is watching you as closely as you think they are (and why that is actually the ultimate freedom).

Agency in Perception: How to stop performing and start intentionally highlighting the parts of yourself you actually value, like your heart or your humor.

The Power of How: Why "Why" questions keep you stuck in the past, while "How might I" questions build your future.

Empathy vs. People Pleasing: Why true empathy is a leadership superpower, but self-sacrificing for the sake of being nice is actually just ick.

Self-Reflection Tools from Cory:

The Story to Completion Strategy: When you're stuck in a Should Trap, play the scenario out to the very end. What actually happens if you don't meet that expectation?

The 25-30 Growth Spurt: Why your late twenties are the most transformative years for your identity, and how to start asking "What do I think?" instead of "What do my parents think?"

Connect with the show: Podcast Instagram: @darksideofperfect.pod

I almost didn't record this episode because I didn't feel ready. I’ve been procrastinating on it for weeks because I’m currently in the middle of a massive transition buying a house, painting, renovating, and living between two places. I realized that waiting to feel ready was just another way I was trying to stay in control.

This episode is a look at why change is so hard for those of us who live by a color-coded planner. I’m talking about the physical and mental exhaustion that comes when your routines snap and your brain hits a wall of predicting outcomes when things are out of our control.

Episode Outline:

• Introduction: The Dark Side of Perfect and Change
• Overwhelm and Distraction Amidst Multiple Changes
• Why Change Is Hard for Perfect Girls
• Change as a Prediction Machine and Control Rituals
• Controlling the Uncontrollable: Plane Rituals and Anxiety
• Decision Fatigue and Routine Disruption
• The Myth of Routine Perfection and Embracing Variability
• Balancing Control and Whimsy: The Role of Flexibility
• Stress, Cortisol, and Narrowed Focus
• Grieving the Old Path and Accepting Bumpy Roads
• Strategies for Managing Change in Real Time
• Final Thoughts

Concrete Steps for the Shift:

• Harmonizing vs. Balancing - Why everything shouldn't be equal, and how to prioritize what actually needs your "Harmony" right now.

• Microdosing Uncertainty -How to train your brain to handle change by taking the long way home or ditching the GPS.

• The Control Audit - Identifying the things you actually have the power to change versus the things you need to let go of.

Whether you’re currently living out of boxes, navigating a friendship shift, or just trying to survive a Tuesday without a color-coded plan, this episode is your reminder that the road will smooth out eventually.

Connect with the show:

• Instagram: @darksideofperfect.pod

• Leave a comment: What is one thing you’re over thinking this week that you need to let go of?

In this episode of The Dark Side of Perfect, Maggie is joined by her ride-or-die of ten years, Maddux, to decode the Physics of Friendship. They trace their origin story from a group project involving gross lake water and failing physics to the high-stakes reality of maintaining a deep connection across 1,000 miles.

We’re pulling back the curtain on how to navigate the isolation of post-grad life and why drifting apart is often just a necessary season of growth. From fantasy balls to the silence of a missed semester, we’re unveiling the secrets to a friendship that survives the distance.

Episode OutlineIntroduction and Guest Introduction

Friendship Origins in College

Friendship Rituals and Shared Interests

The Semester Break and Friendship Resilience

Moving Away and Staying Connected

Travel Adventures and Shared Experiences

Using Technology to Stay Connected

Balancing Old and New Friendships

Growing Together Through Life Changes

Final Thoughts and Friendship AdviceConnect with the show:

• Instagram: @darksideofperfect.pod

• The Lore: Find our Twilight TikToks here: @Magitha_Offical

Why is making friends as an adult so hard?

In this episode of The Dark Side of Perfect, Maggie explores the digitization of modern friendship and why we’ve lost the comfort of the Third Space. Whether you’ve just moved to a new city or you’re feeling the weight of a lonely routine, Maggie shares her personal journey of moving from a nomadic kid to an adult who had to learn how to leave the house to save her social life.

We dive into why it’s unfair (and exhausting) to expect our partners or long-distance besties to be our entire support system, and why you don't have to leave behind your old friends to make room for new ones.

Episode Outline:

Building community through confidence and connection
The importance of support systems and social health
The evolution of third spaces before and after digital age
Personal stories of online and in-person community connections

Expanding your support network through diverse relationships

Overcoming the adult friend-making stigma and fears

Practical tips for initiating friendship and community

Moving, friendship, and building community across different life stages

Encouragement to share tips and seek connection in the comments

Connect with the show:

• New episodes every Thursday!

• Instagram: @darksideofperfect.pod

• Join the conversation: Leave a comment with your best tip for meeting people in a new city!

  
  

  
  

  Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/torus/fragmentationLicense code: SHGS6N0MJVDB8LXL

Does following the perfect girl mold actually lead to happiness, or just burnout? In the Season 2 premiere, Maggie sits down with her sister Mae (owner of Binxmajink Nails (@binxmajinx)) to dismantle the Should Trap. From surviving three schools at once to the moment Mae realized she was walking a graduation stage for everyone but herself, the sisters discuss setting boundaries, humbling the haters, and why "looking like a puppy screaming" is the ultimate trick for handling unsolicited advice. If you are reading the transcript just know it might auto-write Mae's name and business name wrong! Link to her Instagram below!

Episode Outline:

I. Introduction & The Vibe Check

II. Aesthetic as Identity

III. The Journey to Binxmajinks Nails

IV. Navigating the "Real Job" Comments

V. Sisterhood & Generational Patterns

Connect with the show:

New episodes every Thursday!

Mae's Instagram: @binxmajinx (DM her to book a nail appt! or use her website: https://www.binxmajinx.com/)

Podcast Instagram: @darksideofperfect.pod

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/torus/fragmentationLicense code: SHGS6N0MJVDB8LXL

In the season finale of The Dark Side of Perfect, host Maggie reflects on the journey of the podcast, discussing the challenges and triumphs of the first season. She emphasizes the importance of redefining perfection, building a supportive community, and sharing personal growth experiences. The episode concludes with a forward-looking perspective on season two, inviting listener engagement and feedback.

Episode Outline

Welcome to the Dark Side of Perfect

Reflecting on Season One

Defining Perfect and Its Implications

Building a Community and Celebrating Growth

Personal Life Updates and Growth Wins

Looking Ahead to Season Two

Redefining PerfectNew episodes every Thursday!

Podcast Instagram: @darksideofperfect.pod

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/torus/fragmentationLicense code: SHGS6N0MJVDB8LXL

In this episode of The Dark Side of Perfect, host Maggie explores the physical manifestations of stress and the importance of nervous system regulation. Through personal anecdotes and scientific insights, she emphasizes the need for intuitive wellness and listening to one's body. The conversation delves into the consequences of ignoring bodily signals, the dynamics of the nervous system, and practical tips for recognizing and responding to physical cues. Ultimately, the episode advocates for self-love and the importance of shedding apathy armor to foster a healthier relationship with oneself.

Link to a website that describes more about the two sides of the nervous system if you are a visual learner

Episode Outline

The Dark Side of Perfection: Introduction to Health and Wellness

Personal Story: The Consequences of Ignoring Body Signals

Understanding the Nervous System: Go vs. Stop

The Five F's of Stress Responses

Apathy Armor: The Barrier to Self-Recognition

Recognizing Your Body's Signals: Practical Tips

New episodes every Thursday!

Podcast Instagram: @darksideofperfect.pod

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/torus/fragmentationLicense code: SHGS6N0MJVDB8LXL

In this episode of The Dark Side of Perfect, host Maggie delves into the concept of boundaries, exploring their importance in personal relationships and self-care. She discusses the connection between boundaries and people pleasing, the fear and guilt associated with setting boundaries, and practical strategies for establishing them. The episode emphasizes the need for clear communication and consistency in boundary setting, while also addressing the emotional challenges that come with it. Ultimately, the conversation highlights how setting boundaries can lead to greater self-love, emotional safety, and a more peaceful life.

Episode Outline

Introduction to Boundaries

Understanding People Pleasing

The Fear of Setting Boundaries

Defining Boundaries

Types of Boundaries

All or Nothing Thinking

Practical Examples of Setting Boundaries

Approaching Boundary Setting

Reinforcing Boundaries

The Impact of Boundaries on LifeNew episodes every Thursday!

Follow the pod Instagram: @darksideofperfect.pod

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/torus/fragmentationLicense code: SHGS6N0MJVDB8LXL

In this episode, Maggie explores the complex relationship between perception, validation, and identity. She discusses how societal expectations shape our self-worth and the importance of internal validation. Through personal anecdotes and reflective questions, she encourages listeners to embrace imperfection and cultivate self-acceptance. The episode outlines practical steps to detach self-worth from external validation and emphasizes the significance of being present in one's own life.

Episode Outline

Introduction to Perception and Validation

Defining Perception and Its Influence

Understanding Validation and Its Impact

The Interplay of Achievement and Identity

Loosening the Grip of Perception

Five Steps to Cultivate Internal Validation

Replacing Performance with Presence

Conclusion and Reflection

New episodes every Thursday!

Podcast Instagram: @darksideofperfect.pod

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/torus/fragmentationLicense code: SHGS6N0MJVDB8LXL

In this episode of The Dark Side of Perfect, host Maggie explores the concept of romanticizing one's life, emphasizing the importance of finding beauty and meaning in everyday moments. She discusses how this practice can help shift focus from external productivity to internal presence, fostering emotional regulation and self-discovery. The episode covers practical steps for romanticizing life, including mood awareness, creating a vibe, and the significance of transition moments. Maggie also addresses common hangups that may hinder the romanticization process, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique narratives and cultivate a deeper connection with their inner selves.

Episode Outline

Romanticizing Your Inner World

The Importance of Romanticizing Life

Mood and Energy Awareness

Finding Meaning in the Hustle

Creating a Vibe

Imagery and Narrative in Life

Transition Moments for Intentional Living

Overcoming Hangups in Romanticizing Life

New Episodes every Thursday!

Podcast Instagram: @darksideofperfect.pod

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/torus/fragmentationLicense code: SHGS6N0MJVDB8LXL