Melina Valdejo shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Melina, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
I feel called to bring back the deep sense of community that Pathways has always been known for. Before Covid, we weren’t just a shop—we were a gathering place, a family of like-minded souls. After the pandemic, it was easy to stay in ‘survival mode,’ focusing only on the retail side because it felt safe. But my heart knows that’s not enough. I’m being called to open the doors wide again—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually—so people can connect, share, and grow together. It’s a little scary because rebuilding that sense of belonging takes vulnerability, but it feels so necessary. We need each other now more than ever.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Melina Valdejo and I, along with my partner Ken Needham, our manager Karen Williamson and the rest of our team have the incredible honor of continuing the legacy of Pathways New Age Books & Gifts here in St. Louis, Mo. Pathways has been a cornerstone of the spiritual community for decades, celebrating 38 years this year. Originally founded by the beloved Deborah Bourbon, Pathways was one of the very first New Age shops in the area. She wasn’t just a shop owner; she was a teacher, a guide, and a community leader who created a sanctuary for seekers. Her vision was bold for its time: to build a place where people of all spiritual paths could come together, learn, and find the tools they needed for their journey. That spirit of inclusion, education, and empowerment still guides everything we do today.
I first came to Pathways as a seeker myself, and like so many others, I found more than just books and gifts—I found a community and a sense of belonging. When the opportunity came to help carry on Deborah’s vision, it was an “easy yes.” Pathways isn’t just a shop; it’s a living, breathing space where conversations spark transformation and where people discover not only new ideas but also themselves.
What makes us unique is that we’re committed to both the wisdom of tradition and the possibilities of growth. We offer a wide range of spiritual tools, books, and gifts, but more importantly, we create opportunities for people to connect. Right now, I’m especially passionate about rebuilding the sense of community that was so strong before the pandemic. We’re bringing back classes and gatherings, and this year, we’re thrilled to host renowned author and teacher Christopher Penczak for a special weekend event in November.
I’m also working on creative projects that reflect the heart of our mission, which -barring any problems- should release in October. For me, it’s about carrying Deborah’s vision forward—keeping Pathways a safe, welcoming, magical space where people can learn, grow, and truly feel that they belong. That’s the heartbeat of Pathways, and I’m honored to be part of its continuing story.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
For a long time, I carried the fear of being judged or not living up to other people’s expectations. That fear kept me second-guessing myself, leaning into people pleasing and sometimes held me back from stepping into opportunities that mattered to me. I’ve realized that part of me has served its purpose—it probably kept me safe when I was younger—but it no longer serves the life I want to live. Now, I’m focusing on a different word: ‘willing.’ Not fearless, because fear will still show up, but willing. Willing to try, willing to step forward even when it’s uncomfortable, willing to grow. That shift has changed everything, not just in my work but in my life as a whole. Being willing opens doors in ways fear never could.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self: Don’t be afraid to follow what calls to your heart, even if it feels uncertain or imperfect. You don’t have to have everything figured out right away. Think of life like a closet full of clothes—try different things on, see what fits, and don’t be afraid to change your style as you grow. Making mistakes isn’t failure; it’s part of finding what truly feels like you. Every experience will teach you something important, so trust yourself and keep exploring. Oh, and while you’re at it—start that regular exercise routine now. Your future knees will thank you!
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies our industry tells itself is that success is just about selling products. It’s easy to fall into thinking that if the shelves are full and sales are steady, everything is going well. But the truth is that our work isn’t just about commerce—it’s about connection, guidance, and community. Another common misconception is that everyone should have the same spiritual path, tools, or practices to be ‘doing it right.’ In reality, each person’s journey is unique, and honoring that individuality is far more important than any bestseller or trend. Finally, there’s sometimes a quiet pressure to appear perfect or ‘enlightened’—but growth comes from embracing imperfection and curiosity, not pretending we have all the answers. I like to tell folks, that we are a “come as you are party.”
Another challenge we face is the assumption that shops like ours will always be here, no matter what. The reality is that independent businesses (spiritual or otherwise) rely on the support of our customers to thrive. Every visit, purchase, class registration, and conversation matters. Without that ongoing support, the doors may not stay open, and the sense of community we work so hard to cultivate could fade. It’s a reminder that the magic of a place like Pathways isn’t just in the shelves—it’s in the people who show up and help keep it alive. With this economy, it’s become more important than ever.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What light inside you have you been dimming?
For a long time, I dimmed my own light by holding back from fully stepping into the role of being the face of the business. I worried about failing, about saying the wrong thing, or not living up to expectations. There was a lot of pressure to perform perfectly, and that fear kept me from showing the full enthusiasm, energy, and vision I truly feel for Pathways. I realized that by trying to protect myself from judgment, I was also holding back the very presence and inspiration that people connect with.
Now, I’m learning to embrace that visibility, to show up authentically, and to let my passion for this work shine, even when it’s uncomfortable or uncertain. I also remind myself that I can’t please everyone all the time—and that’s okay. By shining my light-which doesn’t have to be perfect- I can encourage others to show up just as they are. It’s like the Hermit card in the tarot: sometimes we step forward so that our light helps others find their own way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pathwaysstl.com
- Facebook: @Pathwaysstl
- Youtube: @pathwaysbooksandgifts3194
- Other: https://www.pathwaysstlswag.shop
Image Credits
Melina Valdejo
