Burnout is more than being tired—it is often a loss of energy, connection, meaning, and momentum. Burnout is a word we hear frequently, but do we really understand what it means? In this first episode of our three-part series on burnout, Andy Huckaba, Teresa Schwab, and Phyllis Collins explore what burnout actually is, how it differs from ordinary stress, and the many ways it shows up in our lives and leadership. Drawing from coaching experiences, personal stories, and the work of burnout researcher Christina Maslach, the conversation examines why burnout is often more than exhaustion. It can also involve disconnection, cynicism, loss of purpose, and a diminished sense of accomplishment. The discussion also explores how burnout can affect not only our work, but our relationships, caregiving responsibilities, and overall well-being. Whether you’re a leader, professional, caregiver, entrepreneur, or someone navigating a demanding season of life, this episode offers practical insights to help you recognize burnout before it becomes a crisis. · What burnout is—and what it is not · The difference between stress, fatigue, and burnout · Christina Maslach’s three dimensions of burnout: o Emotional Exhaustion o Cynicism and Detachment o Reduced Personal Accomplishment · Why high-capacity people are often most vulnerable · How burnout can feel like “spinning your wheels” · The concept of burnout as “workplace depression” · The role of purpose, meaning, and connection · Why burnout is often both an individual and systemic issue · How do I know if I’m experiencing burnout? · What warning signs do people often miss? · Why do high-performing leaders burn out? · What does burnout look like beyond the workplace? · How can we recognize burnout in ourselves and others? Christina Maslach · Co-developer of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) · Pioneer in burnout research and organizational well-being Daniel Pink · Author of Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us · Known for the framework of: o Autonomy o Mastery o Purpose These concepts will be explored more deeply in upcoming episodes as we discuss how leaders and organizations can build more resilient and sustainable workplaces. Burnout doesn’t always begin with being tired. It often begins with feeling stuck, disconnected, depleted, or overwhelmed. Episode 32: Building Resilient Systems and Organizations What role do leaders play in preventing burnout? We’ll explore organizational culture, workplace systems, and how leaders can create environments where people can thrive. Related Episodes If this conversation resonates with you, you may also enjoy: Episode 30 – Intentional Leadership and the Power of the PauseEpisode 29 – Mastering DelegationEpisode 27 – Uncertainty: Fear, Trust, and the Path ForwardEpisode 23 – Finding Your Compass: Values in Leadership and LifeLearn more at #AdAstraCoachAlliance #Coaching #Leadership#ExecutiveLeadership#ExecutiveCoaching#LeadershipDevelopment#OrganizationalCulture#Burnout#Resilience#EmotionalIntelligence#SustainableLeadership#GrowthBeyondBoundaries Tag us @AdAstraCoachAlliance and share your thoughts or takeaways from this episode! Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!) License code: 1AF9FYKW2TNQNGG1