Beyond the Cookie Cutter
Feeling stuck in a cookie cutter life? Struggling to inject order into schedule, children, work, and budget? No time for YOU and your UNIQUE needs? In this podcast, you will find insights from women who have – and are still living through many of the things that you are experiencing. They freely share wisdom and valuable lessons from years of experience. Mary Black shares her own lessons learned, along with outside interviews with beautiful, experienced women. Mary is an amazing communicator. She loves to teach naturally through stories that touch the heart. She helps women connect to the power of their own narrative to grow themselves and those they influence in joyful, inspiring ways.
Beyond the Cookie Cutter
More Than Perfect: Permission To Be You
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In a world that constantly pushes perfection, this episode is a reminder to slow down and recognize the progress you’ve already made. I talk about what it looks like to celebrate your successes—big and small—and truly notice how far you’ve come.
Success isn’t one-size-fits-all, and in this conversation, I explore how to define it for yourself in a way that feels meaningful and true to who you are. You’ll be encouraged to practice self-compassion, reflect on your strengths, and even take time to write down what you’re doing well—because those things matter more than we often realize.
I also dive into the importance of asking for help and letting go of the pressure to do everything perfectly on your own.
This episode is a gentle invitation to release perfection, embrace your growth, and step into a more honest, confident version of yourself—because you are already enough, just as you are.
If you'd like to learn more, here are a few books I recommend:
“The Gap and the Gain,” Dan Sullivan with Dr. Benjamin Hardy
“Mindset: The New Psychology of Success,” Carol S. Dweck
“The Gifts of Imperfection,” Brene’ Brown
“Real Love,” Greg Baer, MD
We love hearing from you!
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Podcast Email: marybcooks@gmail.com
Instagram: @marybcooks
Here's to your joy-filled life!
-Mary