Episode 52: Releasing the Need to Please and Embracing Authentic Living with Riley Hope Matlock

Are you a sensitive soul who finds yourself stuck in cycles of people-pleasing, self-sacrifice, or toxic relationships? In this powerful episode, we dive deep into self-healing, breaking generational cycles, and reclaiming your authentic voice with singer-songwriter and empath advocate Riley Hope Matlock.

Host Kathy Washburn and Riley explore the emotional journey from “Cinderella syndrome” and perfectionism to radical self-investment, creative freedom, and the art of saying “no more.” Riley opens up about overcoming stage fright, healing family trauma, her Dark Night of the Soul, and the liberating process of finding her true voice through music and therapy. She also discusses the impact of boundaries, reclaiming personal power, learning to “breathe deep and rest easy,” and how her upcoming album, “Symphonic Alchemy,” guides listeners from pain to empowerment.

Tune in for raw insight on the messy middle of transformation, practical tips for reconnecting to your true self, and the healing power of music for everyone who’s ready to break free, heal old wounds, and finally make themselves a priority. Don’t miss this episode—your path to self-investment and lifelong empowerment could begin right here!

In this episode, Kathy and Riley discuss:

  • Healing generational trauma through music

  • Navigating empath and narcissist dynamics

  • Releasing people-pleasing and self-betrayal

  • Empowerment through authentic self-expression

  • Somatic and spiritual healing practices

Timestamps:

00:00 Authentic Musical Journey

05:04 Embracing Authenticity and Self-Discovery

08:36 "Recognizing Emotional Roles in Relationships"

10:26 Turning Feelings into Music

13:23 Healing Through Music Release

15:58 Love: A Verb of Overcoming

21:48 Awareness and Release of Anger

25:26 "Invested Investment of Self"

27:44 Unexpected Rage Emergence

31:02 "Navigating the Messy Middle"

33:34 Managing Anxiety with Medication & Boundaries

37:36 Identity Crisis in People Pleasers

40:41 "Symbolic Alchemy: Journey to Self-realization"

42:50 "Anticipation: Healing Before Release"

47:03 Inner Work and Self-Discovery

49:28 Collective Healing Through Self-Empowerment

52:14 "Clearing Fog, Finding Clarity"

More About Riley Hope Matlock


I’m RILEY HOPE — an independent singer-songwriter, storyteller, and creative soul. My music is more than just sound but a deeply emotional soundscape created to hold safe space for healing, self-discovery, and soul awakening. Each lyric and melody is intentionally woven to help listeners reconnect with their authenticity and divine essence, illuminating truths we’ve been conditioned to silence for far too long. Through my songs, I aim to awaken what’s been buried, offering a mirror back to the soul and a pathway toward remembering who we truly are.

Connect with Kathy Washburn

To learn more about Kathy and her coaching services, head over to https://kathywashburn.net/

To schedule a free consultation with Kathy visit https://kathywashburn.net/contact

Follow Kathy on Instagram @kathywashburndotnet

Sign Up for Kathy’s On Demand Anchored Hope Course  https://kathy-washburn.teachable.com/p/anchored-hope