How Good Can It Get

I said out loud that I don’t want to be impressive anymore, and then I posted it. Maybe you’ve felt that pull too. As a millennial eldest daughter and lifelong overachiever, that admission made my pits sweat. It started with my revenue goals. When I looked closely, I saw a number built to prove myself to people from former lives, people I no longer work with or even respect. This episode explores: What I actually mean when I say I don’t want to be impressive anymore How my revenue goal exposed the layer of external validation in my business The hidden hours I spend polishing things in my head before anyone sees them Why off-the-cuff episodes are part of my practice of letting my best be enough My new experiment mantra for the month: less to impress Whose approval is quietly setting your goals? Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

For most of my life, I’ve wanted to be impressive. This week I started to wonder whether I still do. I recorded this one on my phone, diary style, with no outline and no research. It came right after I got to witness my brother and sister-in-law welcome their baby into the world. Being in the room for a birth has a way of rearranging your priorities. As an Enneagram 3, achievement has always been my native language. “I’m an attorney” used to say everything that needed saying. Now I’m sitting with a gut-punch of a question about what kind of ambition fits this season of my life, when my boys and my family matter more than any title. So in this episode, we get more precise. This episode explores: How the drive to be impressive can quietly run the show, even when nobody at home ever pushed you Why a sacred moment like a birth can make old ambitions suddenly feel small The nuance of wanting discipline and devotion while staying clear of burnout What I might be willing to trade, from bigger paychecks to bigger stages, for a life that feels good Why hitting record with zero polish became its own unschooling experiment If you’ve worn the “impressive” mask too, send this one to the friend who would recognize it. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

This week’s headlines about women and money scared me more than my boys’ Halloween costumes, and one of those masks squirts fake blood... So I put on my former news junkie hat, with my employment attorney hat right on top of it, and took you on a haunted house tour of the stories that caught my eye. Some are spooky and a few are downright ghoulish. Together, they say a lot about how work is treating women right now. This episode explores: Microsoft’s voluntary buyout offer to about 60,000 employees, and why the scale of it feels so eerie How a buyout can be a real gift for women ready to leap into something of their own The disappearing act: 451,000 fewer women in the labor force since January, and what might be running underneath it Why so many wealthy women skip financial advisors, according to BlackRock’s first study on women and wealth What it means that women hold fewer than 14% of senior AI leadership roles, and some easy ways to start building your AI know-how Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

Right now, rewiring my relationship with ambition feels kind of boring. Nobody warned me about that part. We love a comeback story. What I’m living is the slow middle, where I catch old patterns in tiny moments and unschool them one decision at a time. Ambition and I are basically in couples therapy. On one side of the table sits the ruthless, get-shit-done version of me who was a rock star in the C-suite. On the other side sits the slower, more devoted life I’m choosing now. Some days I miss her. Other days I feel deeply sad for who she thought she had to be. So in this episode, we get more precise. This episode explores: Why the middle of rewiring can feel so dull, and what that boredom might be telling us The ABCs I’m unschooling: agreements, beliefs and conditioning carried over from 15 years of urgent work How I’m letting my intuition sit beside my ambition so my body gets a real say in my goals My new scoreboard of devotion goals, built to grow self-trust Why boring might be what safety feels like to a nervous system trained on urgency If you’re in a complicated relationship with your own ambition, I’d love to hear how you’re choosing a way of living and working that fits who you are. Come find me on Instagram and tell me. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

Burnout and the ambition hangover love to show up together. For many of us, burnout is what finally slows us down long enough to notice the hangover was there all along. From the inside, the two can feel almost identical. Audacious ambition got me into the C-suite, and I look back at that version of me with a lot of love. Then, after one work wound after another, I started asking what all that striving was really for. That old ambition still shows up when I set revenue goals, and this chapter of my life is asking for something different. This episode explores: How the World Health Organization defines burnout and what it looks like in everyday work Why burnout and the ambition hangover so often land as a one-two punch One simple question to help you tell them apart Why regulating your nervous system comes before any big decision about your career or business The daily rituals I use to tune back in, and when to bring in a doctor, therapist, coach or mentor Are you tired of the work, or tired of the reasons you’re doing it? If this one lands, send it to the friend who keeps saying she just needs a vacation. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

I’ve spent most of my career climbing, and lately the wanting has gotten a bit stale.  For years, ambition was how people knew me. It was also how I came to understand myself. Every role I held, from managing partner to COO to chief strategy officer, asked me to keep reaching for the next thing. Even three years into building Executive Unschool, I still catch myself chasing goals designed to prove I’ve made it on my own. Then something shifts. A promotion feels flat. A work wound or a season of deep exhaustion forces you to stop, and you find yourself asking what it’s all for. So in this episode, we get more precise. This episode explores: What the ambition hangover is and why so many high-achieving women are quietly living it The arrival fallacy, and why reaching the goal can leave us feeling emptier than before Why this shows up whether you lead inside a company or run a business of your own Where in your life have you reached the goal and then wondered what it was all for?  Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

I’ve chased the same financial goal for three years, and this weekend I finally asked who it was really for. Maybe you have too. I told myself the number meant financial freedom and legacy wealth for my family. When I sat quietly with it, I found a hidden audience behind it: colleagues, and earlier versions of me, from a professional life I walked away from years ago. Seven years into healing old work conditioning, I’m still finding new layers of it. This one showed up as a scoreboard I didn’t know I’d packed. So in this episode, we get more precise. This episode explores: How workplaces quietly teach us what success looks like, through billable hours, bonuses, titles and corner offices Why a big goal can secretly be a rebuttal to a former boss or a parent’s old expectations What psychologists found about goals chased for outside recognition and how they affect well-being How borrowed goals feed burnout, even after you hit them Why ambition belongs in your life, and how to make sure your goals belong to you (it’s an “and”) Here’s a question to sit with this week: what would you go after if no one from your past was watching? Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

Two weeks ago, I stopped giving my resistance a seat at the table. Maybe you’re ready to do the same. This week, we’ve looked at resistance from every angle, and today I’m sharing what’s actually working for me. I record a daily podcast, write every day and go live on Instagram every day, with no outs, no matter what. Even in a week full of disruptions, the practices held. They’re quietly rewiring my productivity-driven brain and teaching me to love the process. This episode explores: How to tell resistance that keeps you stuck from resistance that protects you from burnout Why making something non-negotiable leaves no open question for resistance to argue with What showing up in “troll mode” with no makeup taught me about building in public The difference between an amateur who dabbles and a pro who puts in daily reps How building a business can quietly build you, too Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

For three years, I told myself I was writing a book. Maybe you’ve told yourself a story like that too. I had 54 pages I kept tinkering with, a publishing course I’d paid for, and a very reasonable list of reasons to wait. Then I heard a question that stopped me: whatever it is that you want most, do you want to be an amateur or go pro? That’s when I finally got sick of my own BS. This episode explores: How indecision about traditional versus self-publishing became a hiding place for my resistance The valid-sounding stories we tell ourselves to stay comfortable with our resistance What “going pro” asks of us in self-trust and commitment Why I’m measuring my writing days by done instead of stellar, thanks to my husband’s reminder Finding the one next action that moves you closer to what you want What’s your resistance, and what’s one small action you can take today to move past it? Then watch your world change. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

Who am I to want more when I already have so much? Maybe you’ve asked yourself that too. There’s a saying from recovery circles that I can’t stop thinking about: if it’s hysterical, it’s historical. When a reaction feels much bigger than the moment, it’s usually carrying something from long ago. This week I’ve been exploring resistance, and today I’m going deeper. Sometimes the thing holding us back from a big pivot started long before our first job. This episode explores: How the ABCs we absorbed as kids (agreements, beliefs and conditioning) get loudest right when we’re ready to change Why gratitude and wanting more can live in the same life The fear of becoming different from your family, community or hometown What being alcohol-free for four years taught me about other people’s reactions to my choices Two questions that help you tell whether your resistance is historical Here’s a question to sit with: choose one belief you hold about wanting more, and ask whether it’s still true for the woman you are today. And if you know a woman who’s ready for a change but keeps talking herself out of it, send this episode her way. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

Sometimes my resistance shows up right when things are going well. Maybe yours does too. This week, the daily podcast and my 999-word writing ritual have started to feel mundane, kind of like opening a pantry full of snacks I can’t eat anymore. A friend told me her season is about turning the ordinary into extraordinary moments, and it sent me back to one of my favorite books, Gay Hendricks’ The Big Leap. His idea of an inner thermostat changed how I see my own resistance, and it might change how you see yours. This episode explores: The inner thermostat that limits how much good we let ourselves feel Why our upper limit gets set by what feels familiar instead of what we deserve The four hidden barriers that keep our thermostat low, and the one I rumble with most Why so many women learned to be impressive, just not too impressive How naming your upper limit helps you push past resistance without slipping back into hustle culture Here’s a question to sit with: next time you feel resistance, ask yourself what good feeling you might be trying to avoid. And if you know a woman who keeps dimming her light to stay liked, send this episode her way. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

Most days this month, I’ve felt resistance before doing the very things I chose to do. Maybe you’ve felt that too. I committed to recording a daily podcast and writing 999 words a day for the book I’ve wanted to write since I was a little girl. Some mornings, folding laundry sounds better than either one. For a long time, I read that resistance as a warning. Now I’m wondering whether my internal alarm is working off an old map. This episode explores: Why resistance can feel like danger after a season of self-abandonment How the friction of growth and the friction of betraying yourself can feel the same in the body What Steven Pressfield’s The War of Art taught me about Resistance with a capital R Two questions that help me decide whether resistance is worth pushing through How small changes to my environment are making the hard work feel like coming home Here’s a question to sit with: where are you feeling resistance right now, and what might it be pointing you toward? And if you know a woman who’s starting something meaningful and doubting herself, send this episode her way. Curious what your work wounds are asking for this season? Take the Work Recovery® Audit at workrecovery.com. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

If I give myself grace, will I lose my edge? Maybe you’ve wondered that too. If you built your career on getting everything done without complaint, letting yourself off the hook can feel like opening Pandora’s box. As an Enneagram 3, I’ve wrestled with this one for years. Part of the answer lies in how our culture rewards grit, and in what that’s taught us to call discipline. This episode explores: How the word “discipline” got hijacked by hustle culture Why so many high achievers fear that grace will make everything unravel Redefining discipline as devotion to your craft, your work and yourself What a missed workout teaches us about grace that gets you back up the next day How to tell when grace is helping you return, and when it’s become an excuse Here’s a question to sit with: what would it feel like to be held by both grace and devotion, instead of choosing between them? And if you know a woman who’s afraid to slow down because she thinks she’ll lose herself, send this episode her way. Curious where you are in your own work recovery? Take the Work Recovery® Audit at workrecovery.com. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

After burnout, so many of us start asking when we’ll get back to normal and feel like ourselves again. In this episode, I give you my honest answer. You may never return to the version of you who existed before burnout... and that might be the best news. When you look at your patterns with radical honesty, you find things you want to change. That could be how you work, how you show up for your work, or how you separate your worth from your output. Those changes become who you are now. And yet there can be real grief in letting go of the woman who could push through anything, especially when the people around you got used to her. I also share where I am right now in writing my book, using a ritual of 999 words a day. That excavation has shown me a built-in “governor” I didn’t have in my chief-level years, and I’m learning to trust it. In this episode Why “getting back to normal” may be the wrong goal after burnout Grieving the version of you who could handle anything, and remembering what that capacity cost your health and your peace The pushback that comes when your new boundaries affect the people around you Why the urge to come back sharper and faster is an old pattern in a new flavor Small kept promises that rebuild self-trust, like taking lunch away from your desk or leaving when you said you would Meeting old reflexes with curiosity and grace when they come back Take the Work Recovery Audit I worked really hard on this one. The audit helps you slow down and notice what you might be carrying from work, then maps your answers to the Work Recovery Method (Regulate, Rewire, Reclaim). It tells you which phase to start in. Take it at workrecovery.com or find it linked at executiveunschool.com. I’d love to hear what you think. Share the show If this episode helped you, follow or subscribe and leave a rating. Then send it to the friend who keeps saying “I’m fine,” with a note that says, “This made me think of you.” Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

I’ve wrestled with this one for years: when do I give myself grace, and when do I push through? After burnout, your internal alarm system can get out of whack. Some women feel like everything is forcing. Others feel so numb that nothing registers at all. No one can watch you work and tell you whether you’re in flow. You’re the instrument, and this episode helps you tune it so you can feel into what force and flow feel like for you. This episode explores: What flow actually is, and why it needs challenge to show up How forcing borrows energy from caffeine, fear and self-abandonment Four questions that help you tell flow from forcing The difference between the friction of growth and the friction of betraying yourself Small, low-stakes check-ins that rebuild your connection with yourself after burnout Here’s a question to sit with: pick one task on your list this week. Does it renew your energy, or does it borrow from somewhere you’ll have to pay back later? And if you know a woman who’s trying to find her way back after burnout, send this episode her way. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

When a woman comes to me after burnout, I ask her what she wants for herself. Most of the time, she can’t answer. Maybe you can’t either. She can tell you exactly what her team needs and what her boss expects. Her own desires are much harder to find. That long pause says a lot. Burnout is the work wound our culture has finally named, and underneath it, so often, is self-abandonment. In this episode, I share how that showed up in my own career, and why rest alone rarely heals it. This episode explores: The quiet ways we override our own signals to be seen as valuable and worthy How years of small overrides add up to losing contact with yourself Why so many women rebuild the same burnout pattern in a new job with a new title How workplaces reward self-abandonment and call it a compliment Why a few days of PTO can’t rewire a lifetime of putting your needs last Here’s a question to sit with: where did you first learn that your needs could wait when it comes to your work? And if someone you love keeps saying “I’m fine,” send this episode her way. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

I’ve said “I’m burned out” in the same breath as “I’m tired.” Maybe you have too. In the past few episodes, we redefined growth as capacity expansion. This week, I’m looking at what happens when our capacity gets pushed past its edge for too long. Burnout might be the most overused word in work culture right now, and I think it’s one of the least understood. We use it as a catch-all, then take some PTO and expect a week off to fix something that took years to build. So in this episode, we get more precise. This episode explores: How the WHO actually defines burnout, and why it’s specific to work The signs of burnout that go beyond exhaustion, including cynicism and declining confidence The mismatch between people and their jobs in areas like workload, control, fairness and values Why the cleanup for a systemic problem keeps getting assigned to individual women What I saw as an employment attorney when people changed jobs and the harm followed them Here's a question to sit with: when you say you’re burned out, what do you actually mean? Getting specific is the first step toward finding your way back. And if this episode made you think of someone who’s running on empty, send it her way. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

I used to believe growth came from pushing harder. This week, I've been redefining growth as capacity expansion: the capacity to hold more of my own truth and to stay with myself when life gets full. That definition leads to a better question. If growth is capacity, what actually expands it? In this episode, I share my answer in two parts. The first is environment. So many of us leave a job that hurt us and then keep living in the conditions that caused the hurt. When the same patterns show up again, we blame ourselves. Changing the conditions around you creates room for growth that willpower alone can't force. The second is the promises we keep to ourselves. As a former employment attorney, I think of these as the unspoken contracts we have with ourselves. Self-trust gets built one honored term at a time, and every small promise kept tells you that you can count on yourself. That trust is the fuel that lets you hold more. I also share what these two rules look like in my life right now, as physical health becomes my number one priority after some eye-opening news. This episode explores: Why growth needs the right conditions before it needs more effort How work wounds keep us stuck in old environments, even after we leave Small environmental shifts you can make right where you are, without burning it all down Self-trust as a contract you build with yourself, one kept promise at a time Why quiet growth, like a doctor's appointment or a boundary no one notices, still counts If your growth looks quiet right now, I see you. This weekend, choose one small promise to yourself that you know you'll keep. Then keep it, and notice what it feels like to be someone you can count on. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial

I'm becoming suspicious of the way I've defined growth for most of my life. For 20 years, I lived inside reports. As managing partner, COO, and chief strategy officer, I watched revenue, headcount and expense trends, and the "successful" direction of every line was up. Flat meant a problem. A sharp decline meant a crisis. Somewhere along the way, I started measuring my own life the same way. More clients meant better. A fuller calendar meant I was growing. Anything that slowed down felt like falling behind. I carried that pattern right into my work as founder and Editor in Chief of Executive Unschool. This week, after so many of you responded to Wednesday's letter, I wanted to keep exploring this in real time. I don't have it all figured out. What I do have is a new definition that's been coming online for me over the past few months: growth as capacity expansion. Capacity to hold more of my own truth. Capacity to stay with myself when things get hard. Sometimes that means adding something, and sometimes it means clearing space. This episode explores: The invisible architecture behind how we define growth, and how much of it comes straight from balance sheets How the ABCs (agreements, beliefs, conditioning) from years of work shape what we call "success" Why chasing more can be one of the sneakiest forms of self-abandonment Clearing space as growth, including what I let go of before September's new moon Steady seasons, flat lines and decisions made from self-trust If your growth right now looks quiet or steady, or even like a season of contraction, I hope this gives you another way to measure it. Ambition is beautiful. Big, audacious goals are the essence of how good it can get. Let's make sure our measures of growth include how we actually feel. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial

I know what it feels like when the thing you built becomes the thing you have to leave. Ashlei Rolloff got the email on her day off. The million-dollar agency she had built was being divested and spun out to her. On paper, it was a gift. Inside, it showed her how much of her worth had been tied to her VP title and her output. In this episode, Ashlei shares the grief that came in waves and the very specific ways she has rebuilt since, including a sovereign morning and a last hour of the day that belongs to her alone. The beauty in her story is this: the exit opened a new door, and the healing work is what let her walk through it. This episode explores: What happens in the body when a work identity ruptures overnight The healing practices Ashlei layered over time Using Human Design to build a calendar that prevents burnout Early warning signs, and permission to be unapologetically you Featured: Build Your Personal Life Coach Agent Join Ashlei live on October 13 to 15, from 11am to 1pm CT each day, and build an AI coach trained on your Human Design and core values. No coding is needed. Pilot pricing is $297, and only four spots remain. Register: https://nerdherdpro.com/ai-education/ Friend, if you're in that in-between season, I hope this conversation helps you feel less alone. How good can it get? Connect with AshleiWebsite: https://www.nerdherdpro.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleirolloff/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleirolloff/ Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial

I signed up for something a few weeks ago that my body was already saying no to... and I said yes anyway.   Fresh off the Growth Day Conference, I've been sitting with the word growth. Somewhere across 20-plus years of work, I started treating growth and more as the same thing. More clients, more partnerships, more posts, more speaking engagements, all stacked on top of what I already carry.   Then a founder archetype survey from my fractional finance advisor stopped me cold. I'm building as three different founder archetypes, running three different businesses at once. As an Enneagram 3, I believe I'm capable of a lot. Building three startups at the same time is a different question, and it explains why I can cross off half my to-do list and still end the day feeling behind.  Here's my reframe: when you choose contraction on purpose, that counts as growth too.   This episode explores:   How "more" became my default definition of growth The founder archetype survey that showed me I'm building three businesses at once Why addition feels safest when we've learned to earn our worth at work What autumn teaches us about seasons of subtraction The pause I'm practicing before every yes, plus the two questions I ask in it   If you're in a season where everything you're carrying looks good on paper and still feels heavy, take one minute today. Name one area where "more" has been running the show. Then ask what would actually serve your highest good. Letting something go can be the most growth-forward move you make this fall.   Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial

I've drafted email replies in my head while someone I love was telling me about the best moment of their day. Guilty. Maybe you've been there too. You walk through the front door (or up the stairs, if you work from home) and realize you never actually left work. Your body is home, and your mind is still in the 3:00 meeting, rewriting what you should have said. Then the shoes and backpack in the entryway set you off, and deep down you know the shoes were never the point. Research on how people recover from work shows that heavy workloads make it harder to mentally detach during time off. So the weeks you need a real break the most are the weeks your brain holds on the tightest. And with work living in our pockets, the natural boundary between the workday and the rest of your life has disappeared. We have to build that boundary ourselves. In this episode, I'm sharing how to recognize the signals that it's time to reset, plus two practices that help: micro-recoveries during the day and a clean break at the end of it. Listening back, here's my reframe: rest is something you build in before you feel you've earned it. This episode explores: Why the moments we most need to regulate are often the moments we're least likely to notice Real-life signs you've brought work home, from the dinner-table email to the tired-but-wired scroll at 11 p.m. How your body signals it's time to reset (a clenched jaw, shoulders up by your ears, breath that stays high in your chest) Micro-recoveries: what 22 studies on short breaks reveal, and why these breaks are for you more than for your productivity Building a clean break at the end of the day, so your nervous system can learn to trust that work is done Your invitation for today is simple. Pick one signal you know shows up for you, and when you notice it, let it be your cue for a micro-recovery. Then tonight, try one clean break. You've done enough for today, friend. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial

This week felt heavier than most, and I don't want to pretend otherwise. Every time I opened a news app, there was another story where something went terribly wrong for a woman, and the people who were supposed to help...didn't. None of those stories were mine. And my body carried them all week anyway. In this  episode with our new, shorter format, I'm naming what I believe gets activated in moments like these: institutional betrayal. It's what happens when the systems we were taught to trust (healthcare, the courts, our workplaces) fail to be the safety net we counted on. I learned how long that betrayal lingers years before I had language for it, back when I was an employment attorney and thousands of people called our firm to tell us how the places they worked had let them down. Listening back, here's what I hope you hear. Feeling heavy right now makes sense, and you still have a next right step available to you. This episode explores: Why your body can carry stories that technically aren't yours Institutional betrayal, and why it has such a long memory How small moments of betrayal stack into stuckness and apathy One next right step you can take, even when the headlines feel relentless Unschooling the agreements you never consciously signed, and getting clear on what stops with you If this week has felt like pushing a boulder uphill, friend, you're in good company. Take what's useful, rest where you need to, and let me know what stops with you. And tell me what you think of these shorter daily episodes! DM me, send an email, or leave a review. If you're loving them, five stars helps more women find the show. Connect with BreeWebsite: executiveunschool.comInstagram: @breejohnsonofficial

I came back from a summer that expanded me in ways I'm still catching up to, and the first thing I felt was a pull to make sure I wasn't leaving any of you behind. Before I tell you where we're going, let me tell you where I've been. This summer held executive retreats I got to lead, a hypno-breathwork Level Two certification, and a whole lot of work that stretched what I thought I was capable of. Somewhere in the middle of all that expansion, one question kept finding me on stages and on other people's podcasts: what do you do in the season of the whisper? You know the whisper. You're an accomplished woman whose career still works on paper. You're hitting your numbers, running the room, leading your people, carrying the things no one else thinks to carry. Nothing looks broken. And still, something in you has quietly stopped consenting to the way you've been doing it. For a long time we've been told that feeling is burnout. I've come to believe it's something more honest than burnout. You've outgrown an arrangement you signed up for without fully knowing it. Outgrowing something doesn't mean you hate it. I loved so much of my fifteen years in law and the firm I co-founded, the clients, the work, the beautiful moments I probably don't talk about enough. My standards changed. My body changed. My definition of a good life changed. And the fit changed right along with them. Here's the reframe I keep coming back to: this isn't a repair job. You're not broken, you're becoming aware. And once you see the pattern at work, you cannot unsee it in the rest of your life. This episode explores: The difference between burning out and outgrowing, and why that one distinction changes everything about what you do next Why you can be deeply grateful for something and still know, in your body, that it no longer fits who you are Overfunctioning, "eldest daughter disease," and the moment your competence quietly turns into enabling How work becomes a laboratory for the patterns running through your whole life, from your calendar to your closest relationships The parts of yourself you get to reclaim, and why the body often knows you've outgrown something long before the mind will admit it (with a nod to Gay Hendricks and the upper limit problem in The Big Leap) This is the work we do inside Executive Unschool. We take another look at what we were taught about work, success, power, worth, and wealth. We keep what was wise, and we release the survival strategies we dressed up as best practices. Not to fix anything, but to notice what we've outgrown, find where that same pattern is living everywhere else, and reclaim our way back to ourselves. So wherever your whisper is pointing, start there. Brick by brick. Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

I built the thing I most needed, and in this episode I finally lay it all out for you. There is a version of exhaustion that sleep does not fix. You can leave the job, take the vacation, change the boss, and finally close the laptop at 5:00, and the experiences still go around and around in your head. You still hear the criticism from that meeting. One email lands and your whole body snaps back into alert. You walked away from the place that hurt you, and some part of it walked out with you. That is the territory of Work Recovery. I spent years as an employment attorney and a C-suite leader, sitting in the rooms where workplace harm gets investigated, defended, negotiated, and quietly explained away. I know the language. I know the frameworks. I know exactly how organizations respond when a woman raises a concern. And I got so sick of watching what women were expected to tolerate that I left to build something different. In this one, I walk you through what Work Recovery actually is, why rest alone does not finish the job, and the three steps of The Work Recovery Method: Regulate, Rewire, and Reclaim. I share the tools I use, the beliefs I had to unlearn, and the very unglamorous, brick-by-brick process of coming back online after work grinds you down. Looking back, here is the reframe I keep landing on: Work Recovery is not a bubble bath and it is not a nap. It is how a woman remembers who the fuck she is, and a recovered woman is a whole lot harder to gaslight. This episode explores: The kind of exhaustion a vacation cannot touch, and why it follows you home What a "work wound" really is, and how it quietly rearranges your relationship with yourself Why rest matters and still is not enough on its own to heal what work did The three steps of The Work Recovery Method: Regulate, Rewire, and Reclaim The self-discovery tools I love in the Reclaim phase, including Enneagram, human design, and astrology How raising your own standards teaches the world what it can ask of women If you have been quietly wondering whether you need this, let that wondering be your answer. Sometimes the exhaustion is information. Sometimes the anger is information. And sometimes "I cannot keep doing this" is the first honest sentence you have said to yourself in years. Come sit with me for this one, and let's start laying bricks. Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial x @executiveunschool

I really wish someone had handed me this one question earlier in my career, back when I was climbing and striving and sure that the next title would finally make me feel like myself. How good can it get? I say it all the time on this show, and coming back from the most wonderful summer, I realized I've never fully explained what I mean by it. So this episode goes back to basics. This phrase stuck in my soul about two years ago, when I needed something to hold onto that reminded me of all the good in my life even while things were genuinely hard. It has become the question that drives every decision I make now, including how quickly I reset when something doesn't go my way. For so many of us, especially the women listening, success used to be easy to read. There were milestones and titles and a roadmap the corporate world happily kept handing us. Climb, reach for the next rung, repeat. That formula can build an impressive resume while your own desires and the things that actually light you up go missing from the picture. Listening back to my own story, here's the reframe. How good can it get is a reality-based question. It asks what else might be possible inside the life you already have, even on the days something doesn't go your way. This episode explores: What I actually mean when I say "how good can it get," and why it's more serious than it sounds Why so many high achievers keep a low internal "thermostat" for good, and how to raise it The reason ease and contentment can feel more suspicious than struggle How to grow your capacity to receive a good life, not only to build one Why this question keeps evolving as you do, and the permission that comes with it If your hard work has ever felt like it should speak for itself, or if you've been quietly bracing for the next shoe to drop right when life gets good, start here. You don't have to burn everything down. You might just need to ask one honest question about one place in your life, and stay with it longer than feels comfortable. Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial

I really wish someone had told me this earlier in my career: working harder isn't necessarily what moves you forward. For so many of us, especially women, we inherited a simple formula. Keep your head down, do great work, and eventually someone will notice. But as Giselle Marcus and I talk about in this conversation, career growth has an invisible side that many of us were never taught. It's relationships. It's being known for what you do. It's having people who will speak your name when you're not in the room. And it's investing in people before you need something from them. Listening back, I have a different reframe for this conversation. It's less about "networking" and more about refusing to build your career alone. This episode explores: Why excellent work alone doesn't always move your career forward How to build meaningful relationships instead of collecting connections Practical ways to network without pretending to be someone you're not What makes mentorship and professional relationships genuinely reciprocal How curiosity and connection can help us become more inclusive leaders Giselle Marcus brings decades of experience in leadership, operations, networking, mentorship, and relationship building to this conversation. She shares practical ideas for building a network that actually supports you, from following up intentionally to making thoughtful asks and staying connected over time. If you've ever wondered why your hard work doesn't always seem to speak for itself, or if the idea of networking makes you want to hide in the corner, start here. You don't have to become more performative. You might just need to stop trying to do it all alone. Connect with Giselle Website: gisellemarcus.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giselemarcus/ https://www.instagram.com/gisele_marcus/ Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial

Some of the most powerful work we can do isn't changing what's happening around us. It's changing the story we're living inside. Kyle Smith and I recorded this conversation a year and a half ago, and that idea has stayed with me. So many of the patterns I see in my clients come back to the stories we quietly repeat about who we are, what we're capable of, what we're allowed to want, and whether we've earned rest. Over time, those stories can become an identity without us ever stopping to ask whether they're still true. In this conversation, Kyle shares how breathwork and story work can help us notice the patterns running our lives, get curious about the stories underneath them, and begin making different choices. We talk about self-leadership, mental fitness, the words we use with ourselves, and what happens when we stop letting old stories make decisions for us. This episode explores: the connection between breath, the body, and the stories we carry how to identify the "gorilla" story that's creating the most friction in your life a four-step practice for bringing difficult stories out of your head and into conscious awareness why soft language like "I should," "I might," and "I probably will" can undermine our trust in our own decisions the relationship between self-leadership, autonomy, and making clearer choices Kyle also shares a question I keep coming back to: What story have you been repeating that no longer deserves authority over your life?   Connect with Guest Kyle Smith Website: http://www.clarityconsultant.ca/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dapperdudekyle/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dapperdudekyle Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kylesmithtrainer YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dapperdudekyle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarity-consultant/ Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/limitless-life-with-kyle-smith Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com

When this conversation was first recorded almost 2 years ago, I thought we were talking about career pivots. Listening back now, I realize we were talking about identity. About the quiet moment when you start wondering whether the life you've built is actually one you chose. This episode explores: why so many of us confuse achievement with alignment the hidden "rulebook" that shapes our career decisions without us realizing it how sunk cost keeps us staying in jobs long after they've stopped serving us the importance of learning to trust your own inner knowing over external validation why building a business doesn't automatically heal work wounds Drea Katan shares her journey from Fortune 50 engineer and operations manager to entrepreneur after years of anxiety, burnout, and realizing she'd built a career around proving her worth instead of honoring what she truly wanted. Together, we explore the courage it takes to question long-held definitions of success, navigate career transitions with intention, and create work that supports the life you actually want to live. If you've ever wondered whether you're chasing someone else's definition of success—or felt like you've stayed too long simply because you've already invested so much—this conversation is a beautiful place to begin. Connect with Drea Connect with Guest Drea Kattan Insta: https://www.instagram.com/dreakattan/ Free OBM Consult: https://calendly.com/alynergy/obm-connection 5 Types of Hires Guide: http://subscribepage.io/types-of-hires-for-online-coaches Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial LinkedIn: Bree Johnson

Two years ago, I recorded this conversation before I'd fully connected the dots between visibility, work, and opportunity. Looking back, I realize this episode isn't really about LinkedIn. It's about something much bigger: the courage to let people see your work before you know exactly where it will lead. Whether you're building a business, growing your career, or simply wondering what's next, your reputation is one of the few things you get to shape intentionally. This episode explores: why building a personal brand isn't just for entrepreneurs how visibility creates opportunities long before you're actively looking for them why consistency matters more than going viral practical ways to start showing up, even if posting feels intimidating why your network is one of your greatest career assets LinkedIn strategist Caroline Pennington shares practical advice for creating a presence that reflects who you are and what you know. Together, we unpack why so many professionals treat LinkedIn as a digital résumé instead of the relationship-building platform it has become, and how a few small, consistent actions can open doors you never expected. If you've ever wondered whether sharing your ideas is actually worth it, or if you've been waiting until you feel "ready" to become more visible, this conversation is a great place to start. Connect with Caroline Website: femininefounder.com Instagram: @cpennington55 LinkedIn: Caroline Pennington Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial

Two years ago, I recorded this conversation before I had fully articulated what Work Recovery really meant. Looking back now, I can hear so many of the ideas that have become central to my work today. This conversation isn't simply about leadership. It's about questioning the systems we've accepted as normal and asking what becomes possible when we build workplaces around humans instead of productivity metrics. This episode explores: why healthier workplaces begin with healthier leadership, not better perks the myth that people-first leadership comes at the expense of profits how culture is created through everyday decisions, not mission statements the importance of clear expectations over rigid control why one leader can change the experience of an entire team, even inside a broken system Rachel Anderson shares practical wisdom from her work helping organizations build human-centered cultures that improve both employee well-being and business results. Together, we explore what it looks like to lead with trust, redefine productivity, and create workplaces where people can genuinely thrive. If you've ever wondered whether work has to feel this heavy—or whether there's another way to lead—this conversation is a beautiful place to begin. Connect with Rachel Website: https://www.thehumancentricleader.com/ Instagram: @rachelandersonco Book: https://www.thehumancentricleader.com/book Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial

Two years ago, I recorded this conversation before I had language like Work Recovery.   Looking back, I can see the ideas that were quietly shaping everything I believe today.   This episode explores: why being told "it's just stress" can disconnect us from ourselves the relationship between chronic stress, trauma, and physical health learning to trust your body again intuition versus authority why healing rarely begins with another productivity hack   Brooke Herbert shares the story of spending years as a medical mystery before discovering the root causes of her illness. What emerged wasn't simply better health. It was a completely different relationship with herself.   If you've ever wondered whether your body is trying to tell you something your mind keeps ignoring, start here.   Connect with Brooke Instagram: @goldivyhealthco Podcast: Ivy Unleashed Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial

This week's episode is another special reshare from the vault—one that feels just as relevant today as it did when it first aired. Bree sits down with entrepreneur and business coach Ina Coveney to explore what happens when you're forced to rethink your career, your identity, and the stories you've been telling yourself about success. After being passed over for a promotion while on maternity leave, Ina made the difficult decision to leave corporate and build a business on her own terms. What follows is an honest conversation about entrepreneurship, resilience, and the invisible work of unlearning the need to earn approval. Along the way, Ina introduces a metaphor Bree still thinks about today: the two horses that pull every entrepreneur's chariot. One is the clients who keep us accountable. The other is the deeper purpose that carries us through the moments when motivation disappears. The conversation also explores the realities of being a working parent, from navigating guilt and societal expectations to recognizing that so much of the pressure we carry comes not from others—but from ourselves. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why leaving corporate often requires unlearning years of conditioning  The "two horses" that keep every entrepreneur moving: client accountability and a purpose that's bigger than yourself Why entrepreneurship doesn't eliminate pressure—it simply gives you the opportunity to choose which pressures are worth carrying How limiting beliefs about being liked can quietly keep us playing small in business and life Practical ways to set expectations, establish boundaries, and navigate the tension between building a business and being present at home Connect with Ina Instagram: @inacoveney Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial

This week's episode is a special reshare from the vault — and one of the most listened-to conversations in the show's history. Bree sits down with Christy Bowman-White, who went from middle school dropout and teenage parent to principal of a Distinguished School in Washington state... and then burned out completely. Christy's story centers on a metaphor that's stuck with Bree ever since this conversation was first recorded: the basket. For years, Christy poured everything — her time, her identity, her worth — into the basket labeled "career," while every other basket in her life sat empty. Then the Mack truck came. In this episode, Christy gets honest about self-abandonment, the moment she realized her core value of "excellence" was really just perfectionism in disguise, and why emotional intelligence belongs at the foundation of leadership, not on the side as a soft skill. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why so many high-achieving women hit the "I've made it" moment only to find the felt experience is the opposite of what they were promised The basket metaphor: what happens when every egg goes into one area of life, and how to start identifying which of your own baskets are empty How Stephen Covey's four quadrants can be used not just for time management, but as a map for where relationships, health, and sustainability actually live Why emotional intelligence — starting with self-awareness — is the real foundation of effective, people-centered leadership Connect with Christy Christy's Website Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial

Something big is coming. Bree is pulling back the curtain on what the How Good Can It Get? team has been quietly building behind the scenes — and it might be the most exciting thing this podcast has ever produced. New guests. New series. Conversations so good she almost cried in the recording booth. Tune in to hear what's on the way and why the wait is going to be very, very worth it. The best is genuinely yet to come. How good can it get? You're about to find out. The Upcoming Series You're Going to Want to Tell Everyone About Exit Wounds is coming. Real women. Real exits. Corporate roles, multimillion-dollar businesses, marriages, partnerships, friendships — and in one case, an entire country. These are the stories of what happens when a woman finally stops holding on to what no longer fits and starts building the life waiting for her on the other side. Bree has already started recording. Her words: "I almost feel like crying." While you wait for the new series, the archives are full of exactly what you need right now. Bree is curating the best of How Good Can It Get? all summer long — the most downloaded, most shared, most life-changing episodes from nearly 70 countries of listeners. You may have heard some of them before. But you are not the same person you were then. Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial

We've regulated. We've rewired. Now it's time to take your agency back. In the final installment of the Work Isn't Working series, Bree introduces the third step of the Work Recovery Method: Reclaim. This episode is an honest look at the "good enough" zone so many high-achieving women quietly settle into, the victimhood cycle that keeps us pointing outward instead of turning the mirror around, and what actually becomes possible when you stop outsourcing your joy, your purpose, and your sense of self to circumstances you're waiting to change. Bree shares her own ongoing journey of shedding the shoulds, and offers a practical starting point for anyone who needs to begin reclaiming their life in small, powerful doses. What You'll Learn in This Episode What the "good enough" zone actually looks and feels like from the inside, and why it's so easy to stay there Why dissatisfaction at work so often points outward, and what that pattern is really protecting How life is a series of small identity deaths, and why that's something to move toward rather than away from What Bree has shed over the past seven years and what it has made possible for her Why reclaiming yourself rarely requires a dramatic pivot, and what it more often looks like in practice The Love List exercise: what it is, how to build yours, and why it's a reclamation tool, not a productivity hack Why joy is not a reward for finishing your work The Love List Exercise If big-picture reclamation feels too abstract for where you are right now, start here. Make a list of 20 or more things that bring you genuine joy, pleasure, and happiness. Go small and specific. The first bite of ice cream on a hot day. A new bird at the feeder. A dog jumping into your lap. A particular song. A particular light. The Work Recovery Method™: A Series Summary Regulate — Come back into your body. Create enough internal safety to think clearly. Rewire — Examine the agreements, beliefs, and conditioning running your life on autopilot. Choose differently. Reclaim — Stop outsourcing your agency, your joy, and your sense of self. Build from what is genuinely yours. This is an ongoing cycle, not a finish line. Two steps forward, one step back is still growth. Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial

Most of the rules running your life were written before you were old enough to question them. In this episode, Bree introduces the second step of the Work Recovery Method — REWIRE — and breaks down the invisible operating system underneath all of our behavior: your ABCs (agreements, beliefs, and conditioning). If you've ever changed jobs and still ended up in the same cycle or pattern of dissatisfaction, this is the episode that explains why, and what to do about it. Key Takeaways Your ABCs (agreements, beliefs, conditioning) are the operating system underneath all of your behavior — including the patterns you wish you could change. Changing your external circumstances won't interrupt a pattern that lives at this level. The work has to happen from the inside Neuroscience confirms the brain can form new neural pathways at any age but the new path will feel like a dirt road before it feels like a highway Rewiring starts with one question: what outcome am I experiencing, and is it one I actually want? The more aware you become of what's driving you, the more agency you feel and agency is what makes life feel expansive rather than reactive Reflection Question Take a look at one recurring pattern in your work or relationships. What agreement, belief, or conditioning might be sitting underneath it? Is it something you chose, or something you inherited? Connect with Bree Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Keywords: rewiring beliefs, work recovery method, agreements beliefs conditioning, burnout patterns, why the same job problems keep happening, invisible operating system, neural pathways rewiring, autopilot behavior, self-worth and work, burnout recovery tools, subconscious patterns women, how to break work cycles, ambitious women burnout, conscious living, executive burnout

Work Isn't Working, Now What? Part 4: Regulate When work stops working, the instinct is to think harder, plan faster, and do more. But what if the doing is exactly what's keeping you stuck? In part four of the Work Isn't Working series, Bree introduces the foundational step most high achievers skip entirely: regulation. Before strategy, before decisions, before any meaningful next step, your nervous system needs to feel safe enough to think clearly. This episode explores why dysregulated states produce reactive choices, what nervous system regulation actually looks and feels like in practice, and how flipping the cultural script from Have, Do, Be to Be, Do, Have changes everything about how you build the life you actually want. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why the mind-in-overdrive response to professional struggle works against you, not for you What happens in the brain during prolonged stress, and why "thinking your way out" has real physiological limits The difference between reactive decisions and grounded ones, and how to tell which you're making Bree's three personal regulation practices: no-headphone walks, hypnobreathwork, and meditation baths What makes any practice a true regulation practice, and why body-focused is the key distinction The Have, Do, Be sequence most of us inherited, and why reversing it to Be, Do, Have is where real momentum begins The Insight Worth Writing Down Most of us have been living a Have, Do, Be sequence: get the thing, do the work, then finally feel at peace. The sequence that actually creates abundance and joy runs the other way. You be first, grounded and connected to yourself. From there, you do with clarity and intention. And then you have more of what you've been working toward, built on a foundation that can hold it. Reflection Question Where in your life have you been making decisions from a dysregulated state? And what would one small regulating practice this week make possible? Connect with Bree Website: executiveunschool.com  Instagram: @breejohnsonofficial Next in the Series Part 5 of Work Isn't Working is coming next. Once you've regulated, a whole new question becomes available to you: what do you actually want? When you're not operating from chaos, that answer might surprise you. If this episode resonated, share it with a woman in your life who needs permission to slow down before she speeds up.

What happens when the thing you built your entire identity around disappears? In this episode of Work Isn't Working, Bree gets personal — sharing how the intoxicating elixir of career success quietly consumed her identity through her twenties and into her thirties, until the whole thing came crashing down and forced her to ask the hardest question: Who am I without my work? This is the episode for every high-achiever who has an easy answer to "what do you do" but a complicated one to "who are you." In This Episode, You'll Hear:  Why work-based identity is so seductive and how it's designed to be The psychology of contingent self-worth and why it makes your nervous system treat setbacks like survival threats Why you can't think your way out of an identity crisis and what actually works The three-step Work Recovery Method: regulate, rewire, reclaim How Bree shed the habits, relationships, and even the dream home that didn't center her values Why rebuilding identity is slow, nonlinear, and the greatest gift you'll ever give yourself Key Takeaways Work-based identity isn't a character flaw — it's a seduction. Recognizing the pull is the first step. When your sense of self lives in your job title, your nervous system responds to every setback as a survival threat. You can't rewire what you can't see. Regulation has to come before reflection. Identity reconstruction happens decision by decision, not overnight. The people and habits that don't center your values are the first things to go. Reflection Question If you woke up tomorrow and your job — your title, your role, your professional identity — was completely gone, what would be left? Who would you be? Connect with Bree Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Keywords: work identity, burnout recovery, contingent self-worth, nervous system regulation, Work Recovery Method, overachiever burnout, identity after burnout, hustle culture, executive burnout, reclaiming yourself, who am I without my job, work wounds, conscious leadership, ambitious women

How Work Is Quietly Harming You — Physically, Mentally & Emotionally Part of the Work Isn't Working series on the How Good Can I Get? podcast In this episode, host and former employment attorney digs past the surface-level conversation about workplace stress to expose the measurable, documented ways chronic work pressure is harming your body, reshaping your brain, and eroding your relationships. From elevated cortisol and cardiovascular strain to impaired prefrontal cortex function and trauma-mirroring neurobiological patterns, this episode names what most organizations — and their EAP programs — refuse to. If you've ever felt exhausted, reactive, or hollowed out after years of high performance, this conversation will reframe everything. Because the goal isn't to push through. It's to understand what your body has been trying to tell you all along. Key themes Chronic cortisol elevation: How sustained work stress keeps the body's stress hormone dangerously high for years — or decades. Nervous system dysregulation: Fight-or-flight as a permanent background setting — and why a beach vacation won't fix it. Cognitive impairment: Sustained pressure damages the prefrontal cortex — the very region your job demands most. Work wounds as trauma: Columbia University research links adverse workplace experiences to trauma-like neurobiological patterns. Systemic failure: Why legal systems, EAP programs, and affinity groups are bandaids — not solutions. Work recovery: The shift from pushing through to listening to what your body's wisdom is actually signaling. If this episode resonated, subscribe and leave a review — and share it with the high performer in your life who keeps saying they're "fine." Next week: why we build our identities inside our work, and what it really costs to walk away. Keywords: burnout recovery, chronic workplace stress, work stress physical effects, cortisol and burnout, nervous system dysregulation, prefrontal cortex stress, work trauma, work wounds, high performer burnout, executive burnout, Sunday scaries, emotional numbness at work Connect with Bree Social: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Work Recovery Services: www.executiveunschool.com/services

New Series: Work Isn't Working...And It's Not Just You Episode #1 Burnout gets all the attention — but what if it's not actually the root problem? In this episode, host Bree Johnson digs into why treating burnout like a time management or resilience issue keeps you stuck in the same cycle, and what's really going on underneath the surface. If you've tried all the "fixes" and still feel off, this one will reframe everything. In This Episode: Why burnout is a symptom, not the source — and what it's actually pointing to The physiological truth about chronic workplace stress and why your body isn't overreacting What work wounds are — and how past experiences with bullying, betrayal, burnout, and bad behavior silently shape how you work today Why changing jobs doesn't fix the feeling (and what does) The gap nobody names: operating like a machine in a system that rewards output, while your nervous system requires something completely different What real recovery from work actually looks like — and why it's not about doing less Key Takeaway You are not broken. You are responding to something real. And the moment you stop trying to fix yourself and start understanding what your system actually needs — that's when something different becomes possible. Keywords burnout recovery, workplace stress, high achiever burnout, nervous system and work, work wounds, emotional recovery from work, burnout symptoms, high performance burnout, work trauma, sustainable career Connect with Bree Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Work Recovery Services: www.executiveunschool.com/services

What if the life you've been working so hard to build is actually getting in the way of living it? In this personal episode, Bree reflects on a cultural conditioning that keeps so many of us perpetually future-focused — always planning, optimizing, and preparing — while the richness of ordinary life quietly slips by. Influenced by the recent passing of her 94-year-old grandfather, Bree shares an honest and vulnerable look at the moments she missed, the regret that followed, and the radical but simple shift she's choosing going forward: more presence, less rehearsal. Key takeaways US culture glorifies building, not living. Unlike older cultures that emphasize experiencing life as it happens, we're conditioned to endlessly plan, optimize, and prepare for some future version of life. Getting ahead doesn't make the list shorter. The to-do list of "getting out in front of things" never ends — it only steals presence and peace from the moment you're already in. You don't get those moments back. Bree shares the real cost of choosing convenience over connection — and the grief that comes when you realize "next time" ran out. Presence is the antidote to regret. The more we show up for the small, ordinary moments — with family, friends, and ourselves — the less we'll look back wishing we had. Life doesn't need a better plan — it needs your attention. Instead of a tighter roadmap, Bree invites a guiding question: what's already here that's worth being present for? Topics: mindfulness  ·  present moment living  ·  work-life balance  ·  grief & loss  ·  personal growth  ·  intentional living  ·  hustle culture  ·  family & relationships   Connect with Bree Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Work Recovery Services: www.executiveunschool.com/services

Episode 125: C'est la Vie – A Spring Restart Spring isn't just a season change—it's an invitation. Q1 has been rough for many of us. Work let us down. The world felt heavy. We carried burdens that weren't ours to carry. But what if you could give yourself permission to let it all go and start fresh? This episode reframes "c'est la vie"—not as resignation, but as permission. Bree explores why spring is actually the best time to restart, how the equinox aligns with your nervous system's capacity for change, and what it really means to "live and let live" when it comes to yourself. Why spring beats January for restarts Winter contracts you; spring expands you The biology of longer light and nervous system recovery Spring as the astrological new year Why timing matters for sustainable change The reframe: C'est la vie as permission Letting go of Q1 without shame Permission to stop carrying what isn't yours Choosing something different, starting today The neuroscience of seasonal reset Live and let live (starting with yourself) Inhabiting this moment, not the "should have" moment Releasing guilt, narratives, and illusion of control The grace you give a friend, given to yourself Practical self-compassion in a demanding world Takeaways Your exhaustion from Q1 doesn't mean you failed—the timing was off Spring provides actual neurological resources for restart You don't need Monday or next January—you can start today How good it gets depends on your willingness to let heavy stuff go Seasonal alignment matters as much as willpower You deserve a fresh start, and the season is designed for it Reflection What if the best time to restart isn't determined by your calendar, but by the actual resources available to you? Spring isn't poetic—it's practical. You are resourced for change right now. The question is: are you willing to let go? Connect with Bree Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Work Recovery Services: www.executiveunschool.com/services

Business is unusual and it's not just you that sees it. The work machine is operating exactly as designed. In this episode, Bree challenges the belief that burnout, exhaustion, and disillusionment are personal failures, revealing instead how modern work systems are built on extraction. This conversation reframes the “rat race” and our pervasive work hard until retirement conditioning — and invites a different way of living and working. Why “Is it just me?” is the wrong question The hidden cost of success for high-achieving women The extraction model of modern work systems The “retirement lie” and delayed joy Golden handcuffs: paycheck, benefits, and perceived safety Corporate scaling vs. human sustainability Self-abandonment as a learned survival strategy Layoffs and the myth of job security Why burnout is systemic—not personal Takeaways Your exhaustion is not a failure—it’s feedback Modern work is designed to extract time, energy, and attention The system rewards productivity over humanity You’ve been conditioned to delay joy and normalize stress Awareness is the first step to reclaiming your life Work Recovery is an active process, not passive escape Reflection What if your burnout or exhaustion isn’t a sign you’ve failed—but proof the system is working exactly as designed? You are not the problem. The system is extractive by design—and you have the power to choose differently.  Connect with Bree Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com

In this episode, Bree Johnson reflects on the instability many people are feeling in 2026—from rapid AI-driven changes in work to political volatility and the growing sense that systems we once relied on are less predictable. When structures feel unstable, the nervous system naturally searches for certainty. That uncertainty often shows up as irritability, anxiety, or a constant sense that something is “off.” Looking to history, philosophy, and community responses to disruption, Bree explores a simple but powerful conclusion: when the world becomes unstable, the most reliable compass is love. Not sentimentality, but love expressed as care, responsibility, mutual aid, and staying connected to the people around us. As traditional measures of value like productivity and income become less stable, expanding our definition of what matters—community, service, and relationships—may be essential for navigating the years ahead. Key Takeaways Rapid technological change, layoffs, and political instability are creating widespread uncertainty about work and systems people rely on. When systems feel unstable, the nervous system reacts first, often through anxiety or irritability. History shows that during unstable periods, community care and mutual aid become critical stabilizing forces. Money and productivity still matter, but they cannot be the only measure of value or identity. Relationships, service, and care for others often create the deepest sense of meaning during uncertain times. Reflection Questions If love were a primary value guiding your decisions this year, what would you prioritize differently? Where might you shift energy away from productivity and toward care, connection, or rest? How could you support or strengthen the community around you right now? What practices help you stay grounded when the world feels uncertain? Connect with Bree Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com

In this deeply personal episode, Bree Johnson shares the third major lesson from the “Winter of 2026”: the incredible power of community rooted in service. What began with a phone call from a grieving teacher — and a devastating story involving a young student — became a catalyst for Bree’s immersion into community care work across Minnesota. Through rapid mobilization, fundraising, storytelling, and connection-building, Bree discovered a radically different understanding of community than she had previously experienced in her career and life. This episode explores how authentic community is not an audience, not followers, and not transactional relationships. Instead, it is a two-way exchange grounded in service, mutual learning, and shared humanity. Key Themes The difference between being “part of” something and being truly in community How crisis can catalyze purpose and clarity Service as the foundation of meaningful connection Moving from transactional audiences to reciprocal communities The emotional reality of witnessing others’ pain Why businesses and leaders must center impact, not ego The connection between work stress, societal disruption, and the need for recovery Love as the underlying force of both community and work Core Insight The richest communities are built on a two-way street.You give. You receive. You learn. You serve.And the work becomes love in action. What This Means for Work Recovery Bree connects her experiences to her broader mission: Work stress is intensifying due to economic instability, industry disruption, and AI-driven change Many people are experiencing panic, uncertainty, and identity disruption related to work Recovery from work harm is not just an individual issue — it is collective care Work Recovery is not self-care. It is community care. Questions for Listeners Where in your life are you truly in community versus simply adjacent to people? What gifts, resources, or skills do you have that could lessen someone else’s pain? Does your work create impact for people you care about? What kind of community do you want to build or belong to? Memorable Quotes “There’s a difference between being part of something and being in community.” “If you are serving a real need, you are meeting people in their pain.” “The work is to love. Work in action is love in action.” “Work recovery is community care.” Connect with Bree Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com

What happens when the map you’ve followed your entire life suddenly disappears? In this conversation, Bree talks with writer, speaker, and podcast host Heather Morgan to explore what it really looks like to move through a major life reset — divorce, career change, identity loss, and rebuilding from the ground up. Heather shares her journey from Fortune 500 strategist to creator of Wandering the Wild Mess, a platform devoted to self-trust and reinvention. Together, Bree and Heather unpack the uncomfortable middle space between who you were and who you’re becoming — a place many people find themselves after layoffs, relationship endings, burnout, or any major life disruption. This episode dives into the emotional realities of identity deconstruction, nervous system recovery, breaking behavioral loops, and the micro-decisions that build confidence and self-trust over time. In This Episode, We Explore What it means to “wander the wild mess” during life transitions Losing identity after divorce, career shifts, or major change Why strength is built through discomfort, not certainty The role of detachment in reducing suffering during hard seasons Recognizing and breaking personal loops and behavioral patterns How scarcity mindset shows up in identity and productivity Rebuilding self-trust through small courageous actions The power of environment and boundaries during identity shifts How to stop self-abandoning and start choosing yourself Anchoring a new identity before you fully feel it Using future-self decisions to create change one step at a time Key Takeaways You have survived 100% of your life so far. Your track record is strong Detaching from how life “should” look creates freedom to move forward Many patterns persist because they serve a subconscious need Identity reconstruction is wobbly at first — that’s normal Confidence and self-trust come from reps, not insight alone Every action is a vote for the person you’re becoming Connect with Heather Morgan Website: wanderingthewildmess.com   Podcast: Wandering the Wild Mess Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com

Why Courage Isn’t Fearlessness—It’s Action in the Face of Fear In this powerful second lesson from the Winter of 2026 series, Bree Johnson explores what courage really looks like when life feels unstable, overwhelming, and uncertain. We’re often taught that courage belongs to the bold, the confident, the fearless. But real courage? It’s feeling scared out of your mind… and choosing to move forward anyway. In this episode, Bree shares personal stories—from speaking out about work harm and community care, to navigating self-doubt and obstacles on the TEDxDuluth stage—to show how courage is built through action, not perfection. This conversation is for anyone who has been questioning their voice, shrinking their dreams, or waiting to “feel ready” before taking the next step. Takeaways Why courage is not confidence—and never has been How fear, doubt, and uncertainty are part of the courage process What Bree learned from speaking publicly despite relationship loss Behind-the-scenes reflections on preparing for TEDxDuluth The “lion within” metaphor and what it reveals about inner strength Four practical pathways to building courage in your own life Why action—not motivation—is the foundation of bravery How courage supports nervous system regulation and work recovery Ways to move forward even when you feel unqualified or afraid About This Series: Lessons from the Winter of ’26 This episode begins a new series where Bree reflects on leadership, community care, and whole-human resilience shaped by living through a season of social and political reckoning in Minnesota. Each episode offers grounded insight for navigating uncertainty without losing yourself in the process. Leadership Lab 2026 Details If this conversation resonated, Bree and Andrea are opening a four-part Leadership Lab designed to help leaders move from inner pressure to inner integrity—through regulation, decision clarity, truth-telling, and self-trust. Email bjohnson@bree-johnson.com to express interest today, spots are limited.

In this deeply personal episode, Bree shares the first lesson from the Winter of ’26: learning that she had been too quiet. After years of compartmentalizing herself to “protect” her growing business, Bree reflects on what it cost her—and her community—to edit her voice, soften her truth, and outsource her authenticity in the name of success. She opens up about leaving the employment law firm she co-founded, building Executive Unschool from a place of rupture and realignment, and choosing healing over hustle. This episode is about leadership that starts inside. About reclaiming your voice in a time of pressure. About choosing wholeness over palatability. If you’ve ever felt torn between being yourself and being “marketable,” between staying safe and staying true, this conversation is for you. In This Episode, You’ll Hear: Why Bree believes silence doesn’t keep us safe—it keeps us small The story behind leaving her law firm and building Executive Unschool How “polishing” herself for growth diluted her impact What it means to lead from nervous system regulation, not survival mode Why authenticity is not a liability—it’s the source A vision for leadership rooted in care, integrity, and collective healing An invitation to reclaim your full voice in uncertain times Key Takeaways You don’t have to fragment yourself to succeed Your lived experience is part of your leadership Neutrality often costs more than honesty Regulation, rest, and reflection are leadership skills Your values are not separate from your work—they are the work About This Series: Lessons from the Winter of ’26 This episode begins a new series where Bree reflects on leadership, community care, and whole-human resilience shaped by living through a season of social and political reckoning in Minnesota. Each episode offers grounded insight for navigating uncertainty without losing yourself in the process. Leadership Lab 2026 Details If this conversation resonated, Bree and Andrea are opening a four-part Leadership Lab designed to help leaders move from inner pressure to inner integrity—through regulation, decision clarity, truth-telling, and self-trust. Email bjohnson@bree-johnson.com to express interest today, spots are limited.

What if the leadership skills we’ve been taught to develop are no longer the ones that matter? In this episode, Bree Johnson co-hosts with Andrea Tessier to name what many leaders are quietly feeling as we move toward 2026: the old playbook is breaking down. Strategy isn’t enough. Performance is no longer sustainable. And certainty is gone. Together, they explore what leadership actually requires in this next chapter—inner steadiness, emotional literacy, intuitive discernment, and the capacity to lead without abandoning yourself. This isn’t about becoming softer. It’s about becoming more integrated. This conversation opens the door to a different kind of leadership—one rooted in regulation instead of pressure, clarity instead of urgency, and integrity instead of over-functioning. If you’ve been feeling the weight of leadership more acutely, questioning your decisions, or sensing that something has to change—but aren’t sure what yet—this episode will meet you right where you are. In This Episode, We Explore: Why leadership in 2026 will require capacity shifts, not new tactics How chronic pressure and over-responsibility quietly erode decision-making The difference between intuition and reactivity—and why it matters now Why community and collaboration are becoming survival skills, not “nice-to-haves” How emotional intelligence becomes a stabilizing force in uncertainty What it means to lead from inner integrity instead of external expectations Why regulation—not hustle—is emerging as a leadership strategy Key Takeaways: The future of leadership is less about control and more about internal steadiness Intuition becomes clearer when the nervous system is regulated Over-functioning is not strength—it’s nervous system debt Leaders don’t need more certainty; they need self-trust Sustainable leadership requires spaces where people can set down what they’ve been carrying Leadership Lab 2026 Details If this conversation resonated, Bree and Andrea are opening a four-part Leadership Lab designed to help leaders move from inner pressure to inner integrity—through regulation, decision clarity, truth-telling, and self-trust. Email bjohnson@bree-johnson.com to express interest today, spots are limited.

There’s a quote I keep returning to: Some years are questions, and some years are answers. For me, 2025 was an answer year. Not because everything was easy but because the growth was undeniable. In this episode, I share five lived lessons from a year that asked me to stop negotiating with myself, simplify radically, experiment with contentment, trust the timing of the universe, and listen to my intuition more deeply than ever before. These aren’t theories or best practices. They’re answers that showed up through real decisions, real risk, and real trust. Takeaways Why honesty about fear creates faster clarity than overthinking ever will How simplifying became both a financial and nervous-system strategy What happened when I stopped striving and experimented with contentment Why control blocks alignment—and trust opens better outcomes How trusting my intuition led to unexpected opportunities without chasing visibility Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com The Creative Reset Sat. January 17 in St. Paul: http://eventbrite.com/e/the-creative-reset-for-women-rediscovering-their-creative-voice-tickets-1968857473704

The holidays have a way of amplifying what we’ve been carrying all year. In this brief year-end episode, Bree explores why resentment often shows up during the holidays—and why it’s not a personal failure. Drawing on Brené Brown’s research, she unpacks how resentment is frequently rooted in unmet needs and unspoken envy, especially for rest, ease, and space. This episode invites listeners to stop judging resentment and instead listen to what it’s pointing toward. Because when we understand the need underneath, we can give ourselves the comfort, pause, or care we’ve been postponing—and begin the new year from a more regulated place. A quiet reminder that recovery doesn’t start in January. It starts with honesty. We’ve been sold the wrong story about wellbeing. It’s not that leaders don’t care enough. It’s not that they aren’t resilient enough. And it’s definitely not that they need one more productivity hack. The real problem? Leaders are hemorrhaging energy trying to control things that were never theirs to manage in the first place. In this episode, I break down the single biggest barrier to wellbeing I see across founders, people leaders, and women running entire households: letting external uncertainty steal time, focus, and nervous system capacity. Takeaways Control is the illusion. Influence is the work. Fear is an energy leak. Focus is a stabilizer. Your humanity is your advantage. Leadership doesn’t require certainty. Recovery is essential work, not a reward. Positive focus isn’t denial—it’s discernment. If you’re tired of feeling braced for impact—and ready to reclaim your energy—this episode is for you. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com The Creative Reset Sat. January 17 in St. Paul: http://eventbrite.com/e/the-creative-reset-for-women-rediscovering-their-creative-voice-tickets-1968857473704

We’ve been sold the wrong story about wellbeing. It’s not that leaders don’t care enough. It’s not that they aren’t resilient enough. And it’s definitely not that they need one more productivity hack. The real problem? Leaders are hemorrhaging energy trying to control things that were never theirs to manage in the first place. In this episode, I break down the single biggest barrier to wellbeing I see across founders, people leaders, and women running entire households: letting external uncertainty steal time, focus, and nervous system capacity. Takeaways Control is the illusion. Influence is the work. Fear is an energy leak. Focus is a stabilizer. Your humanity is your advantage. Leadership doesn’t require certainty. Recovery is essential work, not a reward. Positive focus isn’t denial—it’s discernment. If you’re tired of feeling braced for impact—and ready to reclaim your energy—this episode is for you. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Soul Goal Free, Live Workshop 11:30 CST Dec. 16  Soul Goal Workshop Sign Up: bit.ly/soulgoalworkshop   The Creative Reset Sat. January 17 in St. Paul: http://eventbrite.com/e/the-creative-reset-for-women-rediscovering-their-creative-voice-tickets-1968857473704

Bree discusses transforming work into a craft, emphasizing the need for personal empowerment and the identification of resistance in one's professional life.   She invites listeners to join her Soul Goals workshop 11:30 CST Dec 16 and reflects on her journey of redefining her work to focus on individual needs rather than corporate demands.   Bree encourages listeners to embrace their resistance as a guide towards a more fulfilling and aligned work experience.   Takeaways How work as a craft enhances fulfillment. Eliminate tasks that drain your energy. Identify what no longer excites you in your work. Recognize that this journey is lifelong. Shift focus from corporate to individual empowerment. Embrace resistance as a sign of misalignment. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Soul Goal Free, Live Workshop 11:30 CST Dec. 16  Soul Goal Workshop Sign Up: bit.ly/soulgoalworkshop   The Creative Reset Sat. January 17 in St. Paul: http://eventbrite.com/e/the-creative-reset-for-women-rediscovering-their-creative-voice-tickets-1968857473704

Bree Johnson hosts guest Stephanie Wall Morrow who advocates for integrating genuine self-care into daily life. They discuss the creation of The Self Care Circle, accessible self-care practices, the significance of mindfulness and intention, and the myths surrounding self-care. Stephanie also shares insights on navigating self-care with ADHD, effective time management strategies, and the importance of creating supportive work environments for neurodivergent professionals.  Takeaways Putting yourself first allows you to help others. Accessible self-care practices can be simple and effective. Mindfulness and intention are key to genuine self-care. Self-care practices can vary by individual and season. Debunking myths around self-care can empower individuals. ADHD requires tailored self-care strategies. Connect with Guest Stephanie  Gift for Listeners: My Self Care Circle

The often unrecognized burden of meeting others' expectations, particularly for women who are caregivers, is intense and time consuming. Bree reflects on her personal experiences during the holiday season and emphasizes the importance of reclaiming time and energy for oneself.   She encourages listeners to recognize the invisible weight of expectations and to prioritize their own desires and joy, rather than solely focusing on pleasing others. The conversation highlights the need for women to say yes to themselves and to embrace their own needs and preferences.   Takeaways The weight of expectations can be overwhelming for women. Many expectations are unspoken and inherited. Saying no to others is not the same as saying yes to yourself. Reclaiming time and energy is essential for personal joy. Women often prioritize others' needs over their own desires. Disappointment of others can feel dangerous but is necessary for self-care. Choosing oneself can lead to greater joy and fulfillment. It's important to recognize the pressure we put on ourselves. Saying yes to small desires can have a big impact. We are here to live our lives wild and free. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com The Creative Reset Sat. January 17 in St. Paul: http://eventbrite.com/e/the-creative-reset-for-women-rediscovering-their-creative-voice-tickets-1968857473704

Bree addresses the challenges many face during the holiday season, particularly those who feel they are merely surviving rather than thriving. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging one's struggles and introduces the concept of the wellness wheel, which consists of eight core areas of well-being. Bree advocates for making small, manageable adjustments in life rather than overwhelming yourself with the pressure to thrive in all areas.    Keywords: holiday season, wellness wheel, mental health, gratitude, self-care, emotional well-being, micro adjustments, thriving, surviving, work recovery   Takeaways The holiday season can amplify feelings of struggle. It's okay to not be thriving; acknowledge your feelings. The wellness wheel consists of eight core areas of well-being. You don't need to have all areas of your life in order to thrive. Small shifts can lead to significant changes over time. Focus on one area of well-being that feels doable. By prioritizing small adjustments, you can build strength. Surviving is part of being human; it's not a failure. Control the controllables in your life. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Have you every thought about how your childhood conditioning affects your adult relationships, particularly the tendency to justify actions and defend oneself in interpersonal interactions? Bree Johnson discusses the impact of early experiences on emotional responses and communication patterns in adulthood.   Takeaways We are conditioned from a young age to justify our actions. Defending ourselves becomes a learned response. Childhood experiences shape our adult relationships. The patterns we learn as children persist into adulthood. Self-justification can hinder effective communication. Understanding our conditioning can lead to personal growth. Awareness of these patterns is the first step to change. Emotional responses are often rooted in early experiences. Work relationships are influenced by childhood conditioning. Breaking the cycle requires conscious effort. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

If you're feeling fear, anxiety, or overwhelm, tune in to this episode where Bree delves into the complexities of fear, particularly the subtle, insidious types that keep individuals from embracing change and stepping out of their comfort zones.   She discusses how fear can masquerade as practicality, leading to a cycle of negative thinking and avoidance. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of recognizing and confronting these fears to foster personal growth and resilience.   keywords: fear, comfort zone, change, safety, self-discovery, personal growth, overcoming fear, mental health, resilience, self-awareness   Takeaways The quiet, relentless kind of fear keeps you small. Fear disguises itself as a protective mechanism. Rehearsing worst-case scenarios does not prepare us. Fear can prevent us from embracing change. Recognizing fear is the first step to overcoming it. Staying in your comfort zone limits personal growth. Fear can be practical but often leads to avoidance. Confronting fear is essential for self-discovery. Understanding fear helps in building resilience. Personal growth requires stepping out of comfort zones. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Guest Michelle M. Ghassemi helps Bree explore the themes of identity death, personal growth, and self-sabotage in the context of entrepreneurship. Michelle shares her journey of transitioning from the beauty industry to becoming a business mentor for women entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery, resilience, and the tools needed to navigate significant life changes.   They discuss the challenges of self-sabotage, the necessity of quiet reflection, and the importance of building a supportive community. Michelle also offers insights into her business assessment tool designed to help entrepreneurs evaluate their current situation and find clarity in their business journey.   Takeaways Identity death can feel like grief or panic. Personal growth often requires stepping into uncertainty. Self-sabotage is a common challenge during transitions. Building a personal brand is about ownership and authenticity. Quiet reflection is essential for self-discovery. Patience is crucial when navigating life changes. Understanding triggers for self-sabotage helps in overcoming it. Creating daily rituals can support mental well-being. It's important to control what you can in your life and business. Community support can ease the journey of entrepreneurship. Connect with Guest Michelle M. Ghassemi Free: Unblock Your B.S.A short worksheet to help business owners get unstuck, clear mental noise, and move forward with grounded momentum.Unblock Your BS CEO Business Operating SnapshotA simple CEO-level clarity tool that helps business owners see their numbers clearly, stop reacting emotionally, and make calmer, more strategic decisions without complicated software or accounting overwhelm.CEO Operating Dash

Bree talks about Gold Medal Syndrome as a way to describe how we all often focus on outcomes and miss out on the good stuff  - particularly the 'messy middle' - where growth and effort occur. Outcomes aren't often as they seem. We're rarely as happy as we think we'll be once we achieve that hoped for outcome and contentment right where you are is an option rather than solely aiming for accolades and achievements.   Takeaways Life is about how you lived the dash. The messy middle is where growth happens. Achievements are byproducts of effort and process. Focus on the journey, not just the destination. Gold medals are not the only measure of success. Embrace the challenges in the middle of life. Personal growth comes from navigating difficulties. Attention should be on the process, not just outcomes. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Bree Johnson hosts Rhonda Parmer to explore innovative leadership coaching approaches, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, discovering personal strengths, and the impact of burnout on leaders. Rhonda shares her personal experiences and insights on how to navigate challenges in leadership, particularly regarding gender dynamics and the necessity of intentionality in preventing burnout. The discussion also highlights practical tips for managing time and health, ultimately reinforcing the idea that effective leadership is rooted in understanding oneself and others. Takeaways Rhonda's journey into coaching began with a desire to help others discover their strengths. Self-awareness is crucial for leaders to understand their unique contributions. Curiosity in leadership can uncover underlying issues rather than jumping to conclusions. Building a leadership bench is essential for organizational growth and sustainability. Burnout often stems from a lack of self-care and awareness of personal limits. Gender dynamics in leadership require open communication and understanding. Intentionality in managing time and health is key to preventing burnout. Personal experiences can shape a leader's approach to coaching and support. Practical strategies like blocking time and setting boundaries can enhance productivity. Continuous learning is vital for personal and professional growth. Connect with Guest Rhonda Parmer Website: www.rhondaparmer.com    Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Bree Johnson shares her excitement about being selected for a TED Talk and dives into the paradox of choice in personal and professional life, particularly the decision to stay in a comfortable situation or take a leap into the unknown. Bree emphasizes the importance of embracing change and the benefits of stepping out of one's comfort zone, while also highlighting the value of depth work and commitment to personal growth. She encourages listeners to explore their desires for novelty versus depth in their lives and to make daily choices that align with their goals.   Takeaways She shares her excitement about being selected for a TED Talk. The concept of paradox is introduced, highlighting the coexistence of good and bad experiences. Bree discusses the choice between staying in a comfortable job or taking a leap into the unknown. She emphasizes the benefits of being on the edge of change and trying new things. The importance of recognizing the lack of control over outcomes is highlighted. Bree addresses the fear of judgment from others when making life changes. She encourages listeners to consider the benefits of depth work in their current roles. Bree suggests a daily choice between seeking novelty or committing to depth. Listeners are invited to experiment with small changes in their daily lives. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

"Most women don't lack drive - they lack direction." Bree Johnson and Beverly Smith discuss effective strategies for navigating career transitions, particularly in the context of mid, senior, and executive-level job searches. They explore the importance of understanding one's strengths, crafting compelling resumes that resonate with both AI and human recruiters, and the nuances of working with recruiters. Beverly emphasizes the need for tailored resumes and the significance of showcasing accomplishments rather than just responsibilities. The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of job searching in the age of AI and the importance of personal branding. Takeaways Your career path doesn't have to be linear. Understanding your strengths is crucial for career transitions. Resumes should highlight accomplishments, not just responsibilities. AI is changing how resumes are evaluated; format matters. Tailor your resume for each specific job application. Working with a recruiter requires finding the right fit. Personal experiences can enhance your job search. Be open to evolving your career path based on interests. Networking and referrals are key in the job search process. Connect with Guest Beverly Smith LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beverlydsmith/ 3 Steps to Reinvent Your Career at Any Age Guide: https://e442-beverly.systeme.io/bree-johnson Website: https://cssar.com/ Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Bree reflects on her summer of silence and disconnection from productivity, sharing personal experiences and insights gained during this time. She discusses the importance of being present in life, the lessons learned from stepping back from social media and productivity, and the significance of prioritizing joy and pleasure. Bree encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives, identify areas where they may be running on autopilot, and embrace joy as a vital part of existence. Takeaways I was fried out, not burned out. Chase your joy as hard as you can. What if I stop all that motion? My life is much more interesting when I pay attention. Autopilot ran the show more than I care to admit. Savor what you love to do. Joy and pleasure are the point. I'm worthy of joy and pleasure. Where have you let joy ride in the backseat? Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Bree discusses the resistance that often hinders individuals from identifying their true desires. She reflects on astrological events that prompted her to evaluate her own aspirations and the challenges that arise when seeking financial freedom.   She shares how shifting timelines created the importance of allowing oneself to sit in discomfort while exploring new values and life designs. She encourages listeners to engage in activities that bring joy and to reflect on what truly matters in their lives, especially during moments of unplugged time with family and friends.   Takeaways Resistance can hinder our ability to identify true desires. Shifting timelines can create opportunities for new beginnings. It's important to allow time for self-discovery and alignment. Finding joy in small activities can reveal deeper desires. Unplugged time can help clarify what brings happiness. Awareness of joyful activities can guide life design. Sitting in discomfort is part of the growth process. Engaging with loved ones can spark insights into personal aspirations. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Bree Johnson discusses recalibrating her nervous system and mindset after a period of intense activity and achievement. She reflects on the discomfort of not having a to-do list and the importance of being present and content in the moment.   Bree introduces five metrics she is tracking this summer to cultivate a more intentional and fulfilling life, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and accountability in achieving personal growth and connection with loved ones.   Takeaways Recalibrating the nervous system is essential after intense periods of activity. Contentment can feel uncomfortable for those driven by achievement. Tracking metrics can help foster intentional living and mindfulness. Spending time in daylight positively impacts mood and energy. Being present in moments enhances the quality of life and relationships. Hugs are beneficial for emotional regulation and connection. Meditation and breath work deepen self-awareness and personal growth. Reading books can serve as an antidote to negative news and social media. Intentional living requires self-reflection and setting personal goals. Creating metrics can help hold oneself accountable for desired changes. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Host Bree Johnson is joined by guest Emily Bronaugh to discuss the importance of creating people-centric workplaces, emphasizing the need for trust, collaboration, and effective leadership. Emily shares her journey and insights on how to redesign work cultures that prioritize autonomy and respect.   They explore the balance between vulnerability and authority in leadership, the significance of systems and processes for delegation, and the future of work in light of technological advancements. The discussion highlights the impact of leadership on team dynamics and the necessity of understanding one's 'why' in guiding effective leadership practices.   Takeaways Emily Bronaugh helps small business owners build people-first teams. Leadership should be collaborative, not authoritative. Trust is essential for effective team dynamics. Vulnerability in leadership fosters better relationships. Systems and processes can enhance delegation and creativity. Meetings should focus on collaboration and problem-solving. Quality of work is more important than quantity of hours. The impact of leadership extends beyond the workplace. Understanding your 'why' is crucial for effective leadership. Creating a positive work culture benefits everyone involved. Connect with Guest Emily Bronaugh Emily's Permission to Lead podcast: https://redcircle.com/shows/5800851c-c71d-44f9-a4df-10797174ecc9Bi-weekly Mompreneur Burnout Breakthrough free hot seat coaching call: https://www.worthofwork.com/live-webinar/mbb/registerList of Interview Questions: https://www.worthofwork.com/f/interviewquestionsLeadership Journey Quiz: https://www.worthofwork.com/f/quizFree Whom to Hire Identifier: https://www.worthofwork.com/f/whom-to-hire-identifierSchedule a 1:1 Call with me: https://calendly.com/worthofwork/consultation?share_attribution=expiring_link

In this celebratory 100th episode of 'How Good Can It Get?', Bree Johnson reflects on her journey of podcasting, the growth she has experienced, and the importance of following one's spark. She shares insights on personal transitions, the global community that has formed around the podcast, and expresses gratitude to her listeners. Bree emphasizes the value of authenticity, presence, and the joy that comes from pursuing one's passions, encouraging others to embrace their own journeys.   Takeaways This podcast represents following a spark of curiosity. Listeners are tuning in from 48 countries. The podcast covers topics from leadership to self-care. Bree shares her personal transitions over the past 15 months. It's important to follow your own spark, even if unclear. The journey may be messy, but persistence is key. The podcast is about presence and authenticity. Bree encourages listeners to keep asking how good it can get. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

In part III of "The Season of Change" mini series, Bree discusses her recent life changes, including selling her house and redefining her work approach. She introduces the concept of 'work recovery,' emphasizing the importance of recovering within the work environment rather than after burnout. Bree outlines the three pillars of work recovery: regulation, rewiring, and reclaiming, and invites listeners to join her upcoming Work Recovery Method Challenge. The episode serves as a reintroduction to Bree's work and the community she aims to build around these concepts. Takeaways Bree shares her recent life changes and their impact. Work recovery is about recovering within the work environment. The culture often glorifies exhaustion and over-functioning. Work recovery focuses on reclaiming time and energy. Bree emphasizes the importance of nervous system regulation. The three pillars of work recovery are regulation, rewiring, and reclaiming. The challenge aims to help individuals navigate work-life balance. Bree's work is about empowering women leaders and executives. Work Recovery Challenge: Sign up here (https://bree-johnson.myflodesk.com/workrecoverychallenge) Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Part II of the mini series "The Season of Change" features Bree Johnson sharing her personal journey through significant life changes, focusing on the importance of nervous system regulation, the concept of micro recoveries, and how to support family dynamics during transitions.   She emphasizes the need for self-care, emotional safety, and effective communication, particularly when navigating changes with children. Bree reflects on her past experiences and how she has chosen to approach challenges differently this time, highlighting the power of presence and patience in fostering resilience.   Takeaways You can make time for yourself even in stressful situations. It's important to regulate your nervous system during changes. Micro recoveries can prevent burnout and promote well-being. Family dynamics can be affected by major transitions. Children process change differently than adults do. Listening to your children is crucial during times of change. Emotional safety is essential for healthy family communication. Your softness and rest are strengths, not weaknesses. Being present and patient can ease the transition process. Navigating change is the real work of personal growth. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

In this solo episode which is Part I of the mini series "A Season of Change", Bree shares the past six weeks, detailing the significant life changes her family has undergone, including selling their home and finding a new place to live. She emphasizes the importance of listening to intuition, having values-based conversations, and navigating family dynamics during times of change. Bree reflects on the challenges and rewards of making bold decisions and encourages listeners to embrace their own journeys of personal growth and empowerment.   Keywords: life changes, home selling, family dynamics, decision making, intuition, values, empowerment, personal growth, moving, new beginnings   Takeaways Bree shares her recent life changes and insights. The importance of listening to intuition during transitions. Navigating family dynamics is crucial during big changes. Values-based conversations can lead to better decision-making. Selling a home while living in it is a unique challenge. Finding a new home base can provide freedom and stability. Embracing the unknown can lead to unexpected rewards. Just because you can do something doesn't mean you should. Listening to children's feelings is essential in family decisions. Personal growth often comes from making bold choices. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

ree Johnson and life coach Allie Mirosevic delve into the transformative power of journaling and manifestation. Allie shares her personal journey, highlighting how journaling became a therapeutic tool during her postpartum depression. They discuss overcoming common resistance to journaling, the benefits of emotional processing, and the importance of personalization in journaling practices. The conversation also explores the role of gratitude in manifestation and the legacy of our journals, encouraging listeners to invite others into their journaling journey. Journaling can have on personal growth, clarity, and stress management.   Connect with Guest Allie Mirosevic Website: https://www.blissd.coInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blissdco/Bree for 20% off all products Bree40 for 40% off manifestation course (code active on course only) Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Bree Johnson and Sabrina Trobak delve into the intricacies of core beliefs, particularly the pervasive feeling of 'not good enough' and its impact on anxiety and emotional well-being. Sabrina shares her journey from education to counseling, emphasizing the importance of understanding and challenging core beliefs to foster healthier coping mechanisms.   They discuss the cycle of unhealthy behaviors, the significance of awareness in the healing process, and practical strategies for rewiring negative thought patterns. They highlight the interconnectedness of emotions and anxiety, the fear of exploring deep-seated beliefs, and the transformative power of healing, not just for individuals but for their relationships as well.   takeaways Sabrina Trobak's journey into counseling began with a workshop on core beliefs. The core belief of 'not good enough' significantly influences anxiety and behavior. Many clients come to counseling with symptoms rather than addressing core beliefs. Challenging core beliefs can lead to significant behavioral changes. Awareness is the first step in the healing process. Creating plans for anxiety can build confidence and reduce worry. Recognizing early signs of anxiety can help manage it effectively. Emotions are not good or bad; they are simply responses to thoughts. Healing requires confronting and processing suppressed emotions. The ripple effect of healing can positively impact relationships. Connect with Guest Sabrina Trobak https://www.trobakholistic.org/https://www.youtube.com/@trobakholisticcounselling4407https://www.facebook.com/trobakholisticcounsellinghttps://www.tiktok.com/@nge_core_beliefhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrina-trobak-b-ed-m-a-c-p-r-c-c-ccs-99725127/https://www.instagram.com/nge_trobak/ Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Bree Johnson talks with Ann Carden, a dynamic entrepreneur and business growth strategist. Ann shares her inspiring journey from corporate management to successful entrepreneurship, highlighting the resilience and dedication required to thrive. She discusses how to innovate within your existing business, turn your expertise into a consulting practice, and overcome the fear that often accompanies entrepreneurship. Ann also reveals her top strategies for using LinkedIn to drive business growth, from building a powerful network to identifying and attracting ideal clients. Packed with practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs looking to scale their business, leverage their expertise, and maximize marketing efforts. Takeaways: Entrepreneurship demands hard work and resilience – Success is built through dedication and continuous learning. Master essential business skills – From marketing to consulting, learning the right skills is crucial. Innovation keeps businesses thriving – If boredom sets in, it’s time to innovate within your existing business model. Leverage your expertise for consulting – Turn your career experience into a profitable consulting practice. Overcome fear on the entrepreneurial path – It’s a natural part of growth and success. Maximize LinkedIn for business growth – Use it strategically for networking, client acquisition, and brand visibility. Connect with Guest Ann Carden https://annlcarden.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/anncarden-business-consultant-coach/ https://www.youtube.com/anncarden https://www.facebook.com/groups/663939057669313 https://twitter.com/ann_carden https://www.instagram.com/anncardenconsulting/ Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

The body reveals trauma in layers, shares guest Chris Wasko, an energy healer and spiritual counselor. She talks about the intricate connections between trauma recovery, energy healing, and personal growth. Chris shares his journey from a challenging upbringing in a narcissistic environment to becoming a healer, emphasizing the importance of understanding the mind-body connection and the layers of trauma held within the body. They discuss the challenges of being a cycle breaker, the role of comfort zones in perpetuating cycles, and the energetic shifts that occur during personal transformation. The conversation also touches on healing from work trauma and the significance of recognizing trauma responses in navigating workplace dynamics. Chris offers insights into how to approach healing with compassion and curiosity, encouraging listeners to explore their own journeys of self-discovery.   Takeaways Energy healing involves reading the chakra system. The body reveals trauma in layers, not all at once. Understanding the mind-body connection is crucial for healing. Being a cycle breaker can be isolating and difficult. Comfort zones create an illusion of safety and ease. Change can feel chaotic in the energetic body. The subconscious mind recognizes patterns from past experiences. We can only change ourselves, not others. Fear is a natural part of the healing process. Healing is an exploratory journey of self-discovery. Keywords: energy healing, trauma recovery, mind-body connection, cycle breaker, comfort zone, work trauma, spiritual counseling, psychic medium, self-discovery, healing journey   Connect with Guest Chris Wasko www.chriswasko.com Facebook: @chriswaskomedium Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Guest Caroline Pennington, a LinkedIn marketing expert, shares insights on personal branding and effective strategies for leveraging LinkedIn. Caroline emphasizes the importance of building a personal brand, engaging authentically, and optimizing LinkedIn profiles to attract opportunities. She provides practical tips for content creation, networking, and measuring success on the platform, encouraging listeners to embrace the long-term benefits of active participation on LinkedIn.   Keywords: personal branding, LinkedIn, social media strategy, engagement, networking, lead generation, profile optimization, authenticity, content creation, business growth   Takeaways Personal branding is essential for both corporate employees and entrepreneurs. LinkedIn is evolving into a platform for creators, not just job seekers. Engagement on LinkedIn can significantly enhance visibility and opportunities. Authenticity is key; share personal insights and experiences. Avoid aggressive sales tactics; build relationships first. Optimize your LinkedIn profile to reflect your personal brand clearly. Engaging with others' content can be a great starting point for new users. Metrics like engagement and meaningful connections are more important than follower count. Consider outsourcing LinkedIn management if time is a constraint. Start posting and engaging consistently to see results over time. Connect with Guest Caroline Pennington https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-pennington/ IG: @cpennington55 Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Bree shares her personal journey of navigating change and the challenges of self-criticism. She discusses the importance of reframing our inner critic and recognizing that the traits we often judge ourselves for can actually be our superpowers. Bree emphasizes the need for compassion and self-love, encouraging listeners to see their perceived flaws as strengths and to embrace their unique qualities.   Keywords: self-criticism, inner critic, self-love, personal growth, emotional intelligence, self-reflection, transformation, mindset, self-acceptance, empowerment   Takeaways The inner critic can be harsh and dismissive, often turning our traits into liabilities. Bree shares her experience of feeling gullible and how it affects her self-perception. Bree lists common traits people criticize themselves for and offers a reframe for each. She highlights the importance of seeing traits as strengths rather than weaknesses. Compassion and self-love are essential in overcoming self-criticism. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

In this episode, host Bree Johnson welcomes Gisele Marcus, a TEDx speaker specializing in networking and relationship building. Giselle shares her journey from a corporate consultant to an operations executive with an MBA from Harvard Business School, underscoring the importance of networking over merely hard work. She offers practical advice for both extroverts and introverts on how to effectively network, even in digital settings.   Gisele emphasizes the significance of genuine connections and provides tips on leveraging LinkedIn, creating memorable interactions, and maintaining regular contact with your network. Additionally, she discusses the roles of mentorship and allyship in career growth and inclusivity, advocating for proactive and empathetic approaches within professional settings.   01:20 Giselle's Journey: From Harlem to Harvard 02:11 The Importance of Networking in Career Advancement 07:20 Tips for Introverts: Navigating Networking Events 12:19 Leveraging Digital Tools for Networking 22:38 The Art of the Ask: Making Effective Requests 26:16 Mentorship and Allyship: Building Genuine Connections   Connect with Guest Gisele Marcus Website: www.giselemarcus.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/giselemarcus/ https://www.instagram.com/gisele_marcus/ Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Bree Johnson is joined by Rachel Anderson, a fractional chief marketing officer, keynote speaker, leadership coach, and author of the upcoming book 'Being Human Centric, a Leader's Guide to Culture, People and Profits.' They delve into the concept of human-centric leadership, which prioritizes the development and growth of individuals over the organization to achieve business results.   Rachel shares her experiences and success stories from implementing this approach in various companies, highlighting the positive impacts on employee retention, team growth, and revenue. The discussion also covers common obstacles to human-centric leadership, the importance of training managers, and practical steps for leaders to create more human-centric workplaces. Bree and Rachel agree - even small changes by individual leaders can create significant ripple effects within an organization.     01:26 Defining Human-Centric Leadership 02:48 Implementing Human-Centric Leadership in Companies 04:25 Challenges and Solutions in Human-Centric Leadership 05:49 The Importance of Training and Culture in Startups 08:33 Balancing Profit and People 16:24 Microcultures and Macro Cultures in Organizations 18:55 Practical Steps for Leaders 34:34 The Future of Human-Centric Leadership   Connect with Guest Rachel Anderson Book: https://www.thehumancentricleader.com/book Website: https://www.thehumancentricleader.com/ Insta: https://www.instagram.com/humancentricleader/ Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Host Bree Johnson navigates the often tumultuous landscape of unexpected work challenges and changes. She discusses the emotional and practical impacts of events such as job loss, office recalls, and significant industry shifts.   Bree emphasizes the importance of re-evaluating deep-rooted beliefs about work and control, encouraging listeners to shift from a victim mindset to one of possibility. Sharing personal experiences and practical tools, Bree highlights how even the most unwelcome changes can lead to personal growth, greater alignment, and unexpected opportunities. Stoic principles, such as the power of 'and', neutrality, and the importance of maintaining emotional balance are underscored as ways to navigate these challenges.    00:23 Facing Unexpected Work Challenges 02:47 Rethinking Work Agreements and Expectations 04:39 Embracing Change and Finding New Opportunities 09:09 The Power of 'And' in Navigating Change 13:02 Stoicism and Shifting Mindsets   Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

In this episode of 'How Good Can It Get?', Bree Johnson introduces a panel of experts who explore various tools and practices for self-discovery and personal growth.   Andrea Tessier discusses the transformative potential of Internal Family Systems for leadership and emotional well-being.   Keshia Tucci explains the significance of numerology in understanding life cycles and preparing for change.   Christy Bowman White presents the Whole Leader Framework, emphasizing the importance of renewing different aspects of oneself for effective leadership.   Kate Ferrian delves into the Myers-Briggs, Enneagram, and Human Design assessments, highlighting their roles in uncovering innate strengths and fostering self-acceptance.   Each speaker shares personal stories and practical advice to help listeners better understand themselves and enhance their well-being.   02:50 The Concept of Redefine 03:55 Introduction to Internal Family Systems (IFS) 08:18 Understanding Internal Family Systems 11:30 Practical Applications of IFS 20:13 Introduction to Numerology with Keshia 22:35 Understanding the Universal Year 25:23 Themes of the Universal Year Nine 34:02 The Power of Self-Discovery 37:02 The Whole Leader Framework 43:55 Kate Ferrian's Journey and Tools 52:38 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Bree and guest Jeanne Omlor explore the art of coaching, from Jean's personal evolution into the field to the common struggles faced by coaches in identifying their value and niche. They discuss the importance of authenticity, the low overhead of coaching as a business model, and the shift from traditional networking to building meaningful relationships. Jean emphasizes the emotional connection to helping others thrive and the necessity of having a system in place for client acquisition.  Jeanne discusses the implications of AI on coaching and human connection, the opportunities presented by the digital world, and the importance of resilience and grit in a society that often coddles individuals. She emphasizes the need for a transformative mindset to succeed in business and life, advocating for embracing challenges rather than avoiding them. Keywords: coaching, business strategy, self-doubt, niche, networking, servant leadership, online business, emotional connection, client acquisition, personal growth, AI, coaching, digital nomads, resilience, entrepreneurship, mental health, technology, human connection, mindset, opportunities Takeaways Jean Amlour's journey into coaching began as a necessity. Authenticity is crucial in coaching, regardless of success. Many coaches struggle with self-doubt and identifying their value. Building a sustainable coaching business requires a system for leads. Networking should focus on relationship building, not selling. Coaching has low overhead, making it accessible for many. Finding a niche is essential for success in coaching. Emotional connection drives the desire to help others prosper. Traditional networking often yields low results for coaches. Everyone can and should be a coach, as there's enough demand. AI is rapidly evolving and will impact many professions. How to Connect with Guest Jeanne Omlor https://jeanneomlor.com/reviews/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanneomlorhttps://www.facebook.com/jeanneomlor/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-wealth-impact/id1723749967   Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesmarch

Host Bree Johnson explores the pervasive myth that faster is always better, particularly in the context of work and personal productivity. She reflects on her own conditioning towards efficiency and the detrimental effects of urgency culture on creativity and well-being. Bree emphasizes the importance of slowing down, being more thoughtful, and prioritizing quality over speed to achieve better outcomes in both personal and professional endeavors. Through her journey of rewiring her beliefs about productivity, she encourages listeners to consider where they might also benefit from giving themselves permission to slow down and reflect.   Topics: efficiency, productivity, slowing down, personal growth, work-life balance, urgency culture, Enneagram, self-reflection, nervous system, burnout   Takeaways Faster is not always better; it can hinder quality. Personal conditioning towards efficiency can be harmful. Urgency culture creates constant stress and pressure. Slowing down can lead to better outcomes. Rewiring beliefs about productivity takes time. Feeling like there's never enough time is a common sign of overload. Prioritizing speed over depth can limit growth. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 3/26/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesmarch

In this episode, Bree Johnson shares her transformative journey of tuning into her intuition through meditation. She discusses the importance of listening to one's inner self, embracing change, and trusting the guidance that comes from within.   Bree recounts a significant meditation experience that led her to make bold decisions, highlighting the synchronicities and healing moments that followed. She emphasizes the need for self-discovery and the power of inner guidance in navigating life's challenges.   Keywords: intuition, meditation, self-discovery, personal growth, trust, healing, synchronicity, inner guidance, self-care, mindfulness   Takeaways Tuning into your own body is essential for personal growth. Meditation can unlock profound insights and guidance. Listening to your intuition can lead to amazing opportunities. Embracing change is crucial for self-discovery. Trusting yourself can lead to healing experiences. Synchronicities often occur when you follow your intuition. You have more answers within than you realize. Creating space for inner guidance is vital for clarity. Lean into the wild experiences of life for growth. This journey represents how good can it get. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 3/26/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesmarch

Bree Johnson emphasizes the importance of listening to our body's cues, especially during high-stress periods. She discusses the impact of chronic stress on health, the significance of recognizing bodily signals, and introduces a simple 60-second exercise to reconnect with our bodies.   The conversation highlights the need for interoceptive awareness and the role of daily habits in achieving sustainable health and well-being.   Keywords: body cues, chronic stress, health, inflammation, body talk, interoceptive awareness, daily habits, wellness, self-care, mindfulness   Takeaways Your body is always communicating with you. Chronic stress can lead to serious health issues. Listening to your body can prevent health crises. Ignoring bodily signals can worsen stress and health. A simple 60-second exercise can help reconnect with your body. Interoceptive awareness is key to understanding bodily signals. Daily habits contribute to long-term health success. Micro recoveries can lead to significant changes. Small shifts in behavior can honor your body's needs. Sustainable success requires attention to both mind and body. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 3/26/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesmarch

Bree Johnson delves into the critical issue of burnout, a prevalent work wound that is often misunderstood. She explains the three key elements of burnout: exhaustion, cynicism, and feelings of unproductivity.   Bree emphasizes the long recovery time from burnout and the importance of recognizing its signs early. The conversation also touches on the broader context of work wounds in 2025, highlighting the challenges faced by employees in today's work environment.   Keywords: burnout, work wounds, exhaustion, cynicism, productivity, mental health, workplace stress, recovery, self-care, employee well-being   Takeaways Burnout is a common work wound that is often misunderstood. The three elements of burnout are exhaustion, cynicism, and feeling unproductive. Exhaustion is a sustained feeling of being bone tired. Cynicism involves feelings of detachment and negativity towards work. Meaningful work does not exempt one from experiencing burnout. Feeling unproductive can fuel a downward spiral in burnout. Awareness of burnout factors can help in prevention. Recovery from burnout can take years, making early intervention crucial. 2025 is projected to be a significant year for work wounds. Spreading awareness about burnout can help debunk myths surrounding it. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 3/26/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesmarch

In this episode, Bree Johnson explores the complexities of change, particularly in the context of personal growth and self-care. She addresses the common question of how long change takes, emphasizing that significant transformations require time and commitment. Bree discusses the importance of understanding the subconscious agreements that drive our behaviors and the necessity of rewiring these beliefs to facilitate lasting change.   Through analogies like the dirt road versus the superhighway, she illustrates the challenges of building new habits and the iterative nature of transformation. Ultimately, Bree encourages listeners to embrace the journey of change, recognizing that it is an ongoing process rather than a destination.   Keywords: change, personal growth, self-care, mental health, habit formation, emotional well-being, transformation, journey, mindfulness, regulation practices   Takeaways Change takes longer than we often expect. Celebrating small wins is crucial in the journey. Big changes require rewiring subconscious habits. Neural pruning allows for new habit formation. Expecting instant results can lead to frustration. Commitment to the journey is essential for growth. Transformation is an iterative process, not a leap. Building new habits feels uncomfortable at first. Confronting oneself is key to personal growth. Trust that change is unfolding as it should. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 3/26/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesmarch

In this episode of 'How Good Can It Get?', host Bree Johnson dives into the importance of relationships in both personal and professional contexts. Four guest speakers—Desiree Petrich, Whitney Harvey, Andrea Turnbow, and Ashley Rolloff—share their insights and personal stories, highlighting key strategies for building authentic connections, advocating for oneself, and supporting others through challenging times.   The speakers emphasize the significance of presence, intentional networking, self-advocacy, and compassionate leadership. They provide practical advice on how to foster meaningful interactions, engage in effective self-promotion, and create supportive environments for those experiencing grief and loss.   Connect with Guests of Executive Unschool's Speaker Series Desiree Petrich  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desiree-petrich/   Whitney Harvey  IG: @whitney.m.harvey.esq / @theselfcoachedlawyer / @genthirty8 LI: linkedin.com/in/whitneyharvey Andrea Turnbow IG: https://www.instagram.com/thegriefnook/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaturnbow/ Ashlei Rolloff LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleirolloff/   IG: https://www.instagram.com/ashlei_rolloff/ Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb

Kyle Smith, a clarity consultant, shares his journey from personal struggles to helping others achieve wellness through neuro-linguistic somatic experience (NLSE) with host Bree Johnson. He discusses the importance of physical breakdown in emotional healing, the necessity of active participation in personal growth, and the profound impact of words on our mindset and reality.   He emphasizes the unique challenges faced by men in their healing journeys and the need for tailored approaches to support their growth. In this conversation, Kyle explores the interconnectedness of energy flow, storytelling, and emotional processing. He emphasizes the importance of confronting personal narratives, particularly those that cause distress, and introduces a four-step method for exploring these stories through breathwork and mindful reflection. The discussion also touches on the impact of soft talk on decision-making, the significance of grit and resilience in finding purpose, and the role of mindset in shaping our experiences and well-being.   Keywords: wellness, clarity, breath work, story work, emotional healing, personal growth, men's mental health, self-respect, identity crisis, language influence, energy flow, storytelling, emotional safety, breathwork, self-leadership, soft talk, grit, resilience, mindset, personal growth   Takeaways Kyle transformed his personal struggles into a passion for helping others. Physical breakdown can lead to emotional breakthroughs. Active participation is crucial for personal growth. Men often respond better to respect than love in healing. Decluttering the mind is essential before adopting positivity. Words have a powerful influence on our thoughts and actions. Understanding the root of our cycles can lead to healing. Self-respect is built through meeting personal standards. Connect with Guest Kyle Smith Website: http://www.clarityconsultant.ca/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dapperdudekyle/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dapperdudekyle Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kylesmithtrainer YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dapperdudekyle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarity-consultant/ Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/limitless-life-with-kyle-smith Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb

In this episode, Bree Johnson discusses the importance of understanding and embracing your 'hell no's' during times of career transition. She emphasizes that defining what you don't want is just as crucial as knowing what you do want.   Through personal anecdotes and reflective questions, Bree encourages listeners to learn from past experiences, set boundaries, and empower themselves to say no without guilt. The conversation culminates in a practical exercise to create a 'hell no' list, helping individuals navigate their career paths with clarity and confidence.   Keywords: career transition, self-awareness, boundaries, personal growth, decision making, work-life balance, empowerment, reflection, self-respect, hell no   Takeaways Get comfortable with your hell no's to avoid misdirection. Defining what you don't want is crucial in transitions. Reflecting on past experiences can guide future decisions. Your hell no's help set boundaries in your career. Saying no is a powerful act of self-respect. It's important to pause before committing to new opportunities. Learn from pain points in your career to identify hell no's. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb

In this episode, Bree discusses the concept of work wounds, particularly in the context of the current workplace environment marked by layoffs and a return to office policies. She introduces the four categories of work wounds: bullying, betrayal, bad behavior, and burnout, emphasizing the importance of understanding these experiences to foster healing and recovery. Bree also highlights the need for individuals to acknowledge their work wounds to break the cycle of trauma and create healthier work environments.   Takeaways Work wounds are becoming more prevalent this year. Legal definitions of workplace harm are limited. Understanding work wounds can empower individuals. The four B's of work wounds are bullying, betrayal, bad behavior, and burnout. Burnout is a clinically defined condition that takes time to recover from. Many people feel blindsided by changes in their work environment. Acknowledging work wounds is essential for healing. Work wounds can lead to repeated cycles of trauma in careers. Proactive addressing of work wounds can create healthier workplaces. This conversation will continue to evolve throughout the year. Keywords: work wounds, workplace trauma, bullying, betrayal, burnout, bad behavior, emotional exhaustion, workplace harm, mental health, employee well-being Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb

Bree Johnson discusses the detrimental effects of making assumptions, which she refers to as an 'energy vampire.' She reflects on her personal experiences with anxiety and overwhelm caused by assumptions about current events and their potential impacts. Bree emphasizes the importance of asking questions and focusing on present realities rather than unconfirmed fears. Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates how assumptions can lead to unnecessary stress and energy loss, and she encourages listeners to reclaim their time and energy by challenging their assumptions. takeaways Making assumptions can lead to anxiety and overwhelm. It's important to differentiate between fact and fear. Asking questions can help break the cycle of assumptions. Personal experiences can teach us about the dangers of assumptions. We often make assumptions to fill our need to know. Assumptions can lead to unnecessary energy loss. Mindfulness can help us stay present and focused. The Four Agreements offers valuable insights on assumptions. Reflecting on our assumptions can lead to personal growth. Reclaiming time spent on assumptions can improve well-being. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb

In this episode, Bree and Rudy Daniel explore the transformative journey of mindfulness, discussing its significance in modern life and the development of the Affirmate app. Rudy shares his personal experiences with mindfulness, the importance of being present, and how technology can be harnessed to facilitate mindful living. They delve into the challenges people face in embracing mindfulness, the cultural context of meditation, and the future aspirations for spreading mindfulness practices.   Keywords: mindfulness, meditation, mindful living, technology, mental health, self-exploration, personal growth, app development, Eastern philosophy, Western culture   Takeaways Mindfulness is about being intensely aware in the present moment. Mindful living can be practiced in everyday activities like drinking coffee. The app Affermate offers short, engaging mindfulness practices. Technology can be a tool for enhancing mindfulness, not detracting from it. Many people experience 'meditation fatigue' due to misconceptions about mindfulness. Mindfulness practices can be simple and accessible to everyone. Rudy emphasizes the importance of individual exploration in mindfulness. Cultural context is crucial for understanding Eastern philosophies. Mindfulness can lead to a sense of sacredness in daily life. The future of mindfulness practices lies in making them engaging and interactive. Connect with Guest Rudy Daniel The Affirmate app: http://bit.ly/affirmate_app Rudy's book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJ7Y1LMP Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb

In this episode, Bree and guest Lindsey Konchar explore the concept of financial self-care, emphasizing its importance in achieving overall wellbeing. They discuss the ripple effects of financial stress on mental health and the disparities in financial education between genders.   The conversation transitions into practical strategies for managing finances, including the significance of intentional spending and the implementation of micro barriers to combat impulsive purchases. By examining the relationship between time and money, advocating for a balanced approach to financial management.   They also discuss the importance of intentionality in financial practices, the challenges of overcoming financial fears, and the significance of community support in achieving financial wellness. They explore the dynamics of financial conversations in relationships, the value of financial discipline before major life changes, and the transformative impact of the no-spend challenge. Additionally, they address how to redefine luxury and provide strategies for managing bonuses and lump sums effectively.   Keywords: financial self-care, financial wellbeing, financial education, gender disparities, intentional spending, micro barriers, COO, CFO, financial therapy, budgeting, financial wellness, intentionality, community support, no-spend challenge, financial discipline, luxury redefined, financial therapy, overcoming financial fears, budgeting strategies, financial conversations   Takeaways Financial self-care is essential for overall wellbeing. Financial stress can negate the benefits of self-care activities. Gender disparities exist in financial education and upbringing. Money habits are often formed in childhood and can be difficult to change. Intentionality in spending can lead to better financial health. Micro barriers can help create friction against impulsive spending. Transitioning from COO to CFO mindset is crucial for financial management. Time and money should be viewed as equal currencies. Small changes can lead to significant financial improvements. There is hope for change in financial habits, regardless of starting point. Practicing delayed gratification is essential for financial health. Financial insecurity can create fear and avoidance in managing money. Asking for help in financial matters is a sign of strength, not weakness. Community support can significantly enhance financial wellness journeys. Financial conversations in relationships require open communication and teamwork. It's beneficial to address financial matters proactively, not just in times of crisis. The no-spend challenge can lead to significant savings and a shift in mindset. Redefining luxury can help individuals align spending with personal values. Managing bonuses effectively requires prioritizing debt repayment and savings goals. Individualized financial strategies are crucial for long-term success. Connect with Guest Lindsey Konchar Social: @financialtherapistlindsey Website: www.copingwithlindsey.com  Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb

In this episode, Bree explores the complexities of decision-making, emphasizing the importance of understanding the weight of our choices and the decisions we don't make. She introduces a framework for making better decisions, which includes defining desired outcomes, gathering information, assessing risks and benefits, committing to action, and practicing patience.   Bree also shares a poetic metaphor of 'sister ships' to illustrate the paths not taken in life, encouraging listeners to embrace their decisions and let go of regrets.   Keywords: decision making, decision framework, intuition, risks and benefits, patience, life choices, personal growth, clarity, outcomes, sister ships   Takeaways Decision-making influences every aspect of our lives. We often obsess over the decisions we don't make. Every decision has its time; some require immediate action, others can wait. A clear outcome helps guide decision-making. Gathering information should balance intuition and logic. Overanalyzing can delay necessary decisions. Assessing risks and benefits is crucial in decision-making. Committing to action is essential for progress. Patience is a key component of effective decision-making. Letting go of paths not taken can bring peace. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseriesfeb

In this episode of 'How Good Can It Get?', Bree Johnson presents a special workshop featuring insights from five speakers as part of the Executive Unschool's monthly series. The topic is 'Reinvention,' where each speaker shares valuable stories and lessons from their own transformative journeys.   Bree Johnson introduces the concept and importance of reinvention and encourages the audience to reflect on their own reinvention goals. Speakers include Ina Coveney, who talks about brand reinvention and practical do’s and don’ts; Kelly Stevens who shares personal stories about stepping closer to one’s true self; Andrea Herbert, who outlines tangible steps for change with her MOVE method; and Caroline Pennington, who demystifies LinkedIn for personal branding and professional growth.   The overarching theme emphasizes the power of shedding old habits, embracing new opportunities, and seeking community support.   Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Save the Date 2/27/25: Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseries

In this episode of 'How Good Can It Get?', Bree Johnson introduces the philosophy of Stoicism, emphasizing its relevance in today's emotionally charged environment. She discusses the impact of current events on mental health and presents Stoicism as a practical tool for resilience.   Bree outlines the core principles of Stoicism, including the importance of virtue, the necessity of controlling only what one can, and the value of accepting reality with grace. She shares personal experiences and practical exercises to help listeners apply Stoic principles in their daily lives, encouraging a mindset shift towards empowerment and emotional well-being.   Keywords: Stoicism, mindfulness, mental health, resilience, philosophy, emotional well-being, control, virtue, personal growth, coping strategies   Takeaways Stoicism offers a practical approach to navigating life's challenges. The mind-body connection can influence our mental health. Happiness is derived from virtue, not external circumstances. We can only control our thoughts, actions, and attitudes. Accepting reality can lead to personal growth. Creating lists of what we can and cannot control is beneficial. Emotional well-being is affected by external news and events. Practicing radical acceptance can alleviate anxiety. Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseries

In this episode, Bree Johnson introduces the rebranded podcast 'How Good Can It Get?' after a hiatus, reflecting on the past year and the experiences that led to the rebranding. She discusses the significance of the phrase 'How Good Can It Get?' as a mantra for resilience and positivity amidst challenges. Bree outlines her intention to focus on work culture, well-being, and personal growth in the new season.   Keywords: podcast, rebranding, personal growth, work culture, well-being, resilience, transformation, inspiration, life balance, reinvention   Takeaways The importance of resilience in facing challenges. The podcast will focus more on work culture and well-being. The phrase 'How Good Can It Get?' resonated with many listeners and so we made it official.  Connect with Host Bree Johnson Insta: @breejohnsonofficial Website: www.executiveunschool.com Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook Speaker Series Registration: bit.ly/euspeakerseries