#144 | Stop Calling It Burnout: The Systems Behind Disengagement w/ Dr. Michelle Singh

Burnout is often the symptom, not the root cause. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Michelle Singh for a powerful reframe that challenges how leaders talk about burnout and disengagement. Instead of blaming individuals for being “overwhelmed” or “unmotivated,” we unpack the systems, structures, and leadership behaviors that quietly create disengagement long before people check out. Dr. Singh shares research-backed insights on how unclear roles, misaligned expectations, constant urgency, and lack of psychological safety drain energy and commitment, especially in mission-driven organizations. More importantly, we explore what leaders can actually change to rebuild trust, focus, and sustainable performance. If you’re tired of surface-level wellness conversations and ready to address what’s really driving disengagement, this episode will push you to stop treating burnout as a personal issue—and start fixing the systems that cause it. 🌍 Community Invitation + Access to Resources: https://connectwithmichelle.com 🫱🏿‍🫲🏻 Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lctelearning 📺 Subscribe to Michelle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@lctelearning 📝 Explore Michelle's Thought Leadership: https://michelle-singh.mykajabi.com/thoughtleadership 🔴 Wath Michelle's TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0b9WJvn3T0c 🌐 Learn More About Michelle’s Work: https://lctelearning.com -- Order Your Copy of Contagious Culture: Creating an Ecosystem of Academic Excellence Subscribe & Leave a Review to The Contagious Culture Podcast Subscribe to Apple Podcasts 📞 Schedule Your Call Here 🖥️ Join the #1 Community for Leaders and Change Makers 👉🏽 Apply to Be in the Growth Alliance  👉🏽Connect with Kyle S. King