EP 61: Performative Wellness: Burnout, Self-Care, and Coming Back to the Basics with Dr. Jen Costanza

Burnout isn’t just a personal problem—it’s a cultural one.In this episode, Kate sits down with former Sociology Professor turned Burnout Coach Dr. Jen Costanza for a refreshingly honest conversation about what it actually means to live in today’s world as a woman, a professional, and a human being with a nervous system.Together, they unpack how modern culture pressures women to perform wellness instead of experience it, why “having it all together” is often a lie, and how burnout is frequently a rational response to unrealistic expectations—not a personal failure.Dr. Jen shares openly about navigating imposter syndrome despite holding a PhD from Ivy League institution Brown University, and how even highly educated, accomplished women still struggle with self-doubt—especially when showing up online as coaches, educators, and thought leaders.This conversation is grounding, intelligent, funny, and deeply validating—especially for high-functioning women who are tired of trying to optimize themselves into worthiness.In this episode, we explore:Why burnout is both a nervous system issue and a societal issueThe cultural pressure for women to perform wellness instead of practicing itHow “wine culture” became a socially acceptable coping mechanism for overwhelmed womenThe invisible emotional labor women carry—and its impact on the bodyImposter syndrome, even with elite credentials and years of experienceWhat it’s really like to show up on social media as a coach, educator, or professionalOwning your voice and expertise without needing to over-prove yourselfWhy sustainable healing doesn’t require a complex or expensive wellness strategyThe overlooked power of foundational practices:SleepNutritionPurposeful movementNervous system regulationHow breathwork supports emotional regulation, safety in the body, and burnout recoveryRemembering joy, play, and pleasure as essential—not optional—parts of healingThe takeaway:You don’t need a perfect morning routine.You don’t need to buy your way into healing.And you’re not behind—you’re likely just burned out.Sometimes the most powerful path forward is the simplest one:tending to your body, telling the truth, resting without guilt, and remembering that you are already enough.Rewired Sober 1:1 Coaching Spots Are Open (But Fill Up Fast) Start anytime and get 3 months of guidance from Kate designed for women in sobriety. Book a discovery call to inquire: Connect with Kate @rewiredsober on all social media platforms:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rewiredsober/Email: [email protected] Dr. Jen CostanzaDr. Jen Costanza is a former sociology professor turned burnout coach, and breathwork facilitator who studies the intersection of identity, culture, performance, and wellbeing. Her work centers around helping people move out of survival mode and reconnect with sustainable ways of living—without the pressure to constantly self-optimize.Connect with Guest Jennifer Costanza: @rooted.lifeWebsite: https://www.rooted.lifeFree Burnout Recovery Guide: https://rootedlife.myflodesk.com/map