Podcast Summary: Who Is She Episode: Season 2, Episode 8 – Things I Wish I Knew in My Late 20s
Host: Danielle Walter
Release Date: June 9, 2025

Danielle Walter returns in the eighth episode of the second season of Who Is She, offering invaluable insights and personal reflections aimed at guiding listeners through the tumultuous late 20s and preparing them to thrive in their 30s. This episode, titled Things I Wish I Knew in My Late 20s, delves deep into the common challenges faced during this pivotal decade, addressing topics ranging from identity crises and career doubts to building financial freedom and nurturing meaningful relationships.

Personal Updates: Embracing Clear Skin

Before diving into the core content, Danielle shares a personal update about her journey to clearer skin. She attributes her improved complexion to a dedicated morning routine involving warm Celtic sea salt and lemon water, followed by a balanced diet and coffee.

"I've been drinking warm salted Celtic sea salt and lemon water in the morning. It's nasty, but I do that and then make sure I eat something before having coffee. It is life-changing." (02:15)

Danielle emphasizes the positive impact of this routine, celebrating her ability to enjoy clear skin without heavy makeup. She candidly discusses the frustration of dealing with acne and the satisfaction of seeing her skin improve naturally.

Navigating Identity Crises in Your Late 20s

One of the foremost topics Danielle tackles is the feeling of an identity crisis often experienced in the late 20s. She explains that this period involves shedding old layers and outgrowing past interests, which can lead to a sense of uncertainty.

"Feeling like an identity crisis is normal because it means you're growing up." (08:45)

Danielle reassures listeners that this is a natural part of personal growth, encouraging them to replace outdated social activities with new ones that align with their evolving selves. For example, swapping nights out for productive morning activities like visiting a farmer's market can help build a new community that better fits one's current lifestyle.

Letting Go of Preconceived Futures

Addressing the challenge of letting go of who one thought they would be by 30, Danielle shares her personal experience of adjusted timelines regarding marriage and motherhood.

"Sometimes not getting what you thought you wanted reveals something way better." (15:30)

She highlights the importance of embracing opportunities that arise from unexpected life paths, suggesting that actively shaping one's life facilitates the process of letting go and discovering a more fulfilling reality.

Handling Friends on Different Timelines

Managing friendships when peers are experiencing life milestones at different paces is another significant discussion point. Danielle talks about avoiding the comparison trap by appreciating the positive relationships around her.

"Seeing friends in great relationships gives me parameters and something to look forward to." (22:10)

She emphasizes the value of surrounding oneself with supportive partners and friends, which helps maintain a positive outlook without succumbing to envy or jealousy.

Overcoming Career Doubts

When discussing career uncertainties, Danielle advises against staying in a job solely for financial reasons if it brings no satisfaction. She advocates for exploring options and making gradual transitions towards more fulfilling career paths.

"Life is too short to be stuck doing something just because it pays bills." (25:50)

By identifying and pursuing passions outside of one's current job, individuals can navigate career doubts and move towards roles that better align with their interests and values.

Negotiating Your Worth

Danielle shares strategic advice on negotiating salaries, encouraging listeners to ask for more than they might initially expect. She recounts her own experiences where aiming higher led to better outcomes.

"Ask for way more, and you'll likely land somewhere in the middle that's still higher than if you started lower." (29:10)

Her approach underscores the importance of self-advocacy in securing fair compensation for one's skills and contributions.

Building Financial Freedom

Dispelling myths about achieving financial freedom in the late 20s, Danielle outlines practical steps towards wealth-building. She distinguishes between saving and investing, stressing the latter as essential for long-term financial security.

"Wealth is made by investing. Just saving your money isn't enough." (33:00)

Additionally, she recommends diversifying income streams, such as through side hustles or investments, to create multiple avenues for financial growth.

Balancing Ambition with Contentment

Finding a balance between striving for goals and appreciating current achievements is crucial. Danielle advises practicing gratitude and recognizing past accomplishments as a foundation for future ambitions.

"Think about the things you wish you had that you have now, even if just with a job." (38:25)

This mindset fosters a sense of satisfaction while maintaining the drive to pursue further aspirations.

Trusting Love After Heartbreak

Addressing the emotional toll of heartbreak, Danielle offers a hopeful perspective on finding love again. She shares her journey of overcoming distrust through time, self-growth, and community support.

"You will love again. It just takes time and growth within yourself." (42:40)

Her message emphasizes resilience and the importance of positive actions, such as engaging with friends and pursuing hobbies, to heal and open oneself to new relationships.

Navigating Hard Conversations in Relationships

Danielle candidly discusses her struggles with confrontation and the importance of honest communication in relationships. She highlights that avoiding difficult conversations can lead to dishonesty and relationship deterioration.

"Holding things in is actually dishonesty." (47:15)

By fostering open and kind dialogue, individuals can address issues proactively, leading to healthier and more authentic connections.

Coping with Growing Apart from Friends

As personal growth leads to evolving interests, friendships may drift apart. Danielle advises treating these transitions with grace, respecting the past relationship while accepting the natural changes.

"Honor the relationship you had while understanding you might be growing apart." (52:00)

This approach ensures that past friendships are cherished even as new connections form.

Dealing with Loneliness

In dealing with loneliness, Danielle underscores the importance of building a community and actively participating in social activities that resonate with one's interests.

"Get yourself in rooms with other people to do activities you like." (55:30)

Engaging with like-minded individuals helps alleviate feelings of isolation and fosters meaningful relationships.

Overcoming Perfectionism

Perfectionism can hinder progress by causing paralysis. Danielle encourages embracing imperfection and continually taking action, even when initial efforts are subpar.

"Just post the work. Do it not perfect, and then refine it for next time." (60:10)

This iterative process promotes growth and diminishes the fear of failure.

Forgiving Yourself for Past Mistakes

Forgiveness is portrayed as a journey intertwined with faith and self-compassion. Danielle shares how her relationship with God has been pivotal in overcoming shame and moving forward.

"Faith and repenting over past mistakes bring me peace." (63:45)

She advocates for self-forgiveness through spiritual practices and personal improvement, emphasizing that one cannot change the past but can shape the future.

Celebrating Small Wins

Recognizing and celebrating minor achievements is essential for maintaining motivation. Danielle advises sharing successes with friends and tailoring celebrations to individual preferences.

"Share your wins with your friends and celebrate everything." (68:20)

This practice fosters a positive mindset and reinforces the importance of acknowledging progress.

Advice from Future Self

Concluding the episode, Danielle reflects on what her future self would advise her current self. She envisions a message of perseverance, faith, and excitement for the unknown future.

"Keep going. You are on the path, driving towards purpose." (72:00)

This forward-looking perspective serves as both inspiration and reassurance for listeners navigating their late 20s.

Conclusion

In Things I Wish I Knew in My Late 20s, Danielle Walter delivers a blend of personal anecdotes, practical advice, and heartfelt encouragement. Her candid discussions on identity, relationships, career, and personal growth resonate with listeners facing similar life transitions. By sharing her vulnerabilities and triumphs, Danielle creates a relatable and supportive space for women striving to navigate their late 20s with confidence and grace.

Notable Quotes:

• "Feeling like an identity crisis is normal because it means you're growing up." (08:45)
• "Ask for way more, and you'll likely land somewhere in the middle that's still higher than if you started lower." (29:10)
• "Just post the work. Do it not perfect, and then refine it for next time." (60:10)
• "You will love again. It just takes time and growth within yourself." (42:40)

Final Thoughts:

This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for women in their late 20s, addressing the multifaceted challenges of this life stage. Danielle's blend of personal experience and actionable advice makes Who Is She a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand and thrive during this transformative decade.