Host Beth narrates and reflects upon Mary Jackson's essay about a client, Lisa, who dreads lunches with her friend Monica because conversations are one-sided and emotionally draining. It’s a truly relatable episode for many of us who struggle to achieve a mutually fulfilling friendship. The episode explores emotional labor, the importance of reciprocity in friendships, and a simple boundary technique Lisa uses to shift the dynamic toward mutual care. About our featured contributor: Mary Jackson is the Life Upgrade Specialist helping high-achieving women break up with old patterns and upgrade to the life they've always envisioned. As a licensed mental health counselor with over 13 years of experience, Mary offers what she calls "individualized reflection" - deep, authentic connection that honors each woman's unique story while guiding her toward real transformation. Her signature "Life Upgrade Method" takes women through four phases: Recognition, Reflection, Renewal, and Rise - moving from pattern awareness to purposeful living through creativity and connection. Mary became a counselor because she found safety and transformation in her own therapist's office. Her personal journey through trauma led her to "make something beautiful out of something ugly," using her lived experiences to provide clients exactly what she needed during her own healing. What sets Mary apart is her magnetic ability to help women see their own potential through authentic connection and community. She's the friend who asks hard questions, celebrates wins without reservation, and reminds you that your worth is non-negotiable. Through her newsletter "The Inner Glow Society" on Substack, she continues this work of helping women upgrade their lives. Her core belief: "If you want something different, you're going to have to do something different." Mary Jackson is proof that your old patterns served you, but you don't have to stay stuck there. Your life upgrade is waiting. Website: maryjackson.online CONTACT US AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:Beth responds personally to all communications received.  Connect with Social Leopards: Substack (FREE subscription includes a weekly blog): @socialleopards YouTube: @social-leopards Instagram: socialleopards TikTok: @socialleopards Patreon (exclusive content including guided meditations, affirmations and audio version of the weekly blog): SocialLeopards