FRIED. The Burnout Podcast

Dr. Monica Wang, a veterinarian who overcame burnout and incorporates Chinese medicine, discusses her journey. Topics include burnout in veterinary school, Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, self-care, setting boundaries, and achieving work-life balance. She encourages aligning self-care with personal values and seeking external support. The myth of 'Work Harder' trap is dispelled, emphasizing that more effort isn't always the answer. Small changes, reflecting on experiences, and feeling safe are key to burnout recovery.

Hey fried fam, it's Sarah, and today, I want to dive into a transformative experience from my life in 2022. This journey not only marked my recovery but ignited the realization that giving myself permission to have what I want is crucial. In this episode, we'll explore the importance of recognizing your needs, confronting fears, and embracing the healing path. So, buckle up, my fellow burnout warriors, as we talk about the empowering journey of self-discovery.Episode Highlights:Your needs are just as important as anyone else's. Grant yourself the freedom to prioritize what you truly want and need in your life.Setting boundaries and communicating effectively can make a huge difference. When I faced challenges in my relationship, I realized the importance of standing strong and saying no when necessary. It's about recognizing when a situation isn't serving you and having the courage to clearly communicate your needs.Embrace your emotions, even the uncomfortable ones. Trust me, it's crucial to honor what you feel. Take a moment to acknowledge your emotions, explore their roots, and determine what you truly need in those moments. This emotional self-awareness is a key part of the healing journey.Lastly, something close to my heart—reparenting your inner child. I've been there, and I understand. Show yourself compassion for past experiences, address unmet needs from your childhood, and nurture your inner child with love and support. It's about building trust within yourself and creating that internal safety for healing. Take care of your inner child; they deserve it. Links:Burnout isn’t a personal failure or a lack of resilience. It’s a signal that something in the system, expectations, roles, pace, or support, is out of alignment. Conversations like this one help surface the human experience of burnout, while the broader work continues to explore how organizations can respond more intelligently and sustainably.To explore burnout, leadership, and sustainable performance through a workplace and organizational lens, connect with Cait Donovan: https://bit.ly/bookcaitLearn more about Cait’s speaking work: https://www.caitdonovan.com/speakingShort on time? Watch this 3-minute reel: https://bit.ly/caitdreel2025

In today's episode, Sarah and I discuss the topic of sleep, particularly from the perspective of Chinese medicine. They also talk about the phases of burnout and how they can impact sleep patterns for certain individuals.Episode Highlights:Cait and Sarah delve into the Chinese medicine perspective on sleep, introducing the concept of Yin and Yang. They use the Yin Yang symbol to explain the interdependence of these opposing forces, describing Yin as cold, dark, still, and moist, while Yang is associated with warmth, activity, and movement. They explain how balance between Yin and Yang is crucial for overall well-being and that disruptions in this balance can affect sleep.They encourage listeners to consider the Chinese medicine perspective on sleep and explore the principles of Yin and Yang balance. They want listeners to view sleep through this lens, understanding the interplay between Yin and Yang as they aim to provide a fresh perspective that may help listeners make different choices to improve their sleep.Remember, understanding the phases of burnout and recognizing how imbalances in Yin and Yang can impact sleep patterns. The goal is to empower everyone with a new understanding of sleep and potential strategies for achieving better sleep quality.Linkshttps://www.friedtheburnoutpodcast.com/post/riley-jarvis-the-big-secrets-of-exceptional-sleep-with-the-sleep-consultanthttps://www.friedtheburnoutpodcast.com/post/kristen-holmes-stay-ahead-of-your-health-with-whoopBurnout isn’t a personal failure or a lack of resilience. It’s a signal that something in the system, expectations, roles, pace, or support, is out of alignment. Conversations like this one help surface the human experience of burnout, while the broader work continues to explore how organizations can respond more intelligently and sustainably.To explore burnout, leadership, and sustainable performance through a workplace and organizational lens, connect with Cait Donovan: https://bit.ly/bookcaitLearn more about Cait’s speaking work: https://www.caitdonovan.com/speakingShort on time? Watch this 3-minute reel: https://bit.ly/caitdreel2025

In today's episode, I will talk about breaking the cycle of assumptions, communicating openly about preferences, and embracing tasks and experiences that bring personal joy and fulfillment.Episode Highlights:Cait Donovan talks about challenging the habit of self-sacrifice, exploring resentment as a tool for defining boundaries, and encouraging individuals to prioritize their needs and desires, symbolized by the metaphor of "giving yourself the good plate."Cait encourages listeners to prioritize their own needs and desires, challenging the habit of self-sacrifice, and urging them to stop giving away the metaphorical "good plate."The overall message is a call to action for individuals to prioritize their well-being, challenge assumptions, and create a more balanced and fulfilling life. The challenge for the year 2024 is presented as an opportunity for individuals to commit to giving themselves the "good plate" and sharing their journey with everyone else!Connect with Cait:Cait Donovan is a keynote speaker, author, and host of FRIED: The Burnout Podcast, specializing in burnout, mis/match, and sustainable performance at work. She partners with corporate leaders, teams, and professional associations through keynotes, workshops, and leadership sessions that treat burnout as data, not failure, to help organizations reduce burnout without blame or shame and build healthier, high performing cultures.To bring Cait to your organization or event, book an inquiry call here: https://bit.ly/bookcaitLearn more about Cait’s speaking work: https://www.caitdonovan.com/speakingShort on time? Watch this 3-min video: https://bit.ly/caitdreel2025

Welcome, dear listeners, to a captivating transformation and personal growth journey. I'm Cait Donovan, your host for today's episode. In this episode, we have the incredible privilege of delving into a conversation that promises to be nothing short of life-changing. She's not just here to talk the talk; she's walked the walk. So, grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and prepare to be inspired as we introduce you to the remarkable Bronwyn Davis.Episode Highlights:Bronwyn Davis stresses the importance of embracing new approaches to personal growth, emphasizing that it's not a quick fix but a profound tool for self-discovery. Her insights reveal that preparation and a guided environment are key for successful ketamine sessions. She blends internal family systems therapy concepts to address potential resistance, underlining the need for both physical and emotional safety.Now, here's the kicker: ketamine-assisted coaching is tailor-made for self-aware high achievers looking to conquer their inner obstacles. It's a transformative journey towards self-love and clarity, but the real magic happens when you integrate those insights into your daily life.Bronwyn shares her own personal growth journey with ketamine.This episode is your ticket to discovering the potential of ketamine-assisted coaching for burnout recovery and personal transformation. It's all about embracing openness, prioritizing safety, and ensuring ongoing support along the way.Connect with Bronwyn Davis:https://www.bronwyndavis.com/https://www.ketamineassistedcoaching.com/https://www.instagram.com/bronwyndaviscoaching/https://www.linkedin.com/in/bronwyndaviscoaching/Free meditation guide for people who don't like to meditate: https://tinyurl.com/mr3we3t6Connect with Cait:Cait Donovan is a keynote speaker, author, and host of FRIED: The Burnout Podcast, specializing in burnout, mis/match, and sustainable performance at work. She partners with corporate leaders, teams, and professional associations through keynotes, workshops, and leadership sessions that treat burnout as data, not failure, to help organizations reduce burnout without blame or shame and build healthier, high performing cultures.To bring Cait to your organization or event, book an inquiry call here: https://bit.ly/bookcaitLearn more about Cait’s speaking work: https://www.caitdonovan.com/speakingShort on time? Watch this 3-min video: https://bit.ly/caitdreel2025

In today's episode, I will talk about the concept of Festivus from Seinfeld and how its elements, such as the Festivus pole, airing of grievances, feats of strength, and the declaration of Festivus miracles, can be adapted to address workplace burnout.Episode Highlights:Cait Donovan talks about Festivus from Seinfeld, exploring each of its element's application in battling burnout. Cait stresses the importance of simplicity, open communication, setting achievable goals, and celebrating positive changes in creating a healthier work environment.Cait encourages listeners to get their own Festivus miracle by using a resentment journal, which is a tool designed to identify aspects of your life that generate resentment, assisting in the process of determining whether to eliminate or modify them.While Festivus originates from a sitcom as a lighthearted and absurd holiday, its components can offer valuable lessons in combating workplace burnout. Remember to declutter your workspaces, encourage open communication, set achievable goals, and celebrate your victories. By doing so, you can make your workplaces more resilient and enjoyable!Connect with Cait:Cait Donovan is a keynote speaker, author, and host of FRIED: The Burnout Podcast, specializing in burnout, mis/match, and sustainable performance at work. She partners with corporate leaders, teams, and professional associations through keynotes, workshops, and leadership sessions that treat burnout as data, not failure, to help organizations reduce burnout without blame or shame and build healthier, high performing cultures.To bring Cait to your organization or event, book an inquiry call here: https://bit.ly/bookcaitLearn more about Cait’s speaking work: https://www.caitdonovan.com/speakingShort on time? Watch this 3-min video: https://bit.ly/caitdreel2025

Diann Wingert, an expert in ADHD and burnout, discusses the relationship between the two. She highlights how intense curiosity from ADHD can lead to burnout without proper boundaries. Strategies like setting reminders and maintaining self-awareness are crucial in managing hyper-focus and preventing burnout.

In today's episode, I will talk about how companies can help reduce burnout risk with their employees. I will be emphasizing the importance of individual responsibility in recovering from burnout and how a supportive work environment can help to recovery.Episode Highlights:Cait Donovan talks about the intricacies of burnout recovery, emphasizing each individual's pivotal role in the process. She highlights the limited impact of company-initiated changes and recent insights into working with companies on burnout-proofing and culture improvement. Cait stresses the importance of personal investment in their own recovery from burnout.Cait encourages listeners to take a proactive role in their burnout recovery, emphasizing personal investment and the power of expressing gratitude and appreciation in the workplace for a positive shift in dynamics.Remember, in burnout recovery, your pivotal role is crucial, so prioritize personal investment over relying solely on company changes. A little personal responsibility goes a long way. Additionally, foster a culture of psychological safety and always acknowledge the impact of expressing gratitude for a positive workplace shift.Connect with Cait:Cait Donovan is a keynote speaker, author, and host of FRIED: The Burnout Podcast, specializing in burnout, mis/match, and sustainable performance at work. She partners with corporate leaders, teams, and professional associations through keynotes, workshops, and leadership sessions that treat burnout as data, not failure, to help organizations reduce burnout without blame or shame and build healthier, high performing cultures.To bring Cait to your organization or event, book an inquiry call here: https://bit.ly/bookcaitLearn more about Cait’s speaking work: https://www.caitdonovan.com/speakingShort on time? Watch this 3-min video: https://bit.ly/caitdreel2025

Today, we're delving deep into the fascinating realms of Perimenopause, Menopause, and Burnout, topics that resonate with every woman's well-being. Dr. Susan Lovelle, a true authority in these areas, will guide us through the intricate journey of understanding and navigating these phases. Buckle up for an enlightening conversation that can transform your life!Episode Highlights:Dr. Susan Lovelle opened up about her own journey through burnout and the profound impact it had on her health. As a former plastic surgeon and a busy mom, she learned the hard way how neglecting self-care can lead to serious health issues like deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and severe infections. This eye-opening experience led Dr. Susan to pivot her career towards wellness and lifestyle medicine.What's even more fascinating is the connection she drew between chronic stress and hormonal imbalances. Dr. Susan explained that prolonged stress can mess with hormones causing undesirable changes and more. She also shed light on the unique challenges faced by women during perimenopause and menopause, where hormonal changes add another layer of complexity.Dr Lovelle's most vital piece of advice: stress management is the key. Finding your own stress-relief groove is essential since it's a highly personal journey.If you're navigating perimenopause or menopause, remember: managing stress and personalized solutions are your best allies on this exciting journey to better health and well-being!Connect with Dr Susan Lovelle:https://premierewellness.com/home-2936 https://www.instagram.com/premierewellness_/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsusanlovelle/ Free meditation guide for people who don't like to meditate: https://tinyurl.com/mr3we3t6Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/LeanHormoneExecConnect with Cait:Cait Donovan is a keynote speaker, author, and host of FRIED: The Burnout Podcast, specializing in burnout, mis/match, and sustainable performance at work. She partners with corporate leaders, teams, and professional associations through keynotes, workshops, and leadership sessions that treat burnout as data, not failure, to help organizations reduce burnout without blame or shame and build healthier, high performing cultures.To bring Cait to your organization or event, book an inquiry call here: https://bit.ly/bookcaitLearn more about Cait’s speaking work: https://www.caitdonovan.com/speakingShort on time? Watch this 3-min video: https://bit.ly/caitdreel2025

This podcast discusses strategies for overcoming rumination, people pleasing, and perfectionism. It suggests interrupting ruminating thoughts, practicing disappointing people, and embracing imperfection. It also explores accepting gratitude and avoiding unnecessary apologies as ways to overcome perfectionism and people-pleasing tendencies.