Why Passion Alone Can Lead to Burnout

In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I’m joined by Jo Van Osch, therapist, occupational psychologist, and researcher in burnout coaching interventions. Jo brings both lived experience of burnout (three times!) and deep professional expertise to the conversation, making her insights invaluable for educators, leaders, and anyone navigating burnout recovery.We explore a powerful reframe: burnout isn’t inevitable. Instead, it can be an opportunity to create cultures of care, connection, and success in schools and beyond.Jo shares her personal journey of burnout and reintegration, and how those experiences shaped her seven-pillar model of wellbeing, which supports both individuals and organisations to prevent burnout and thrive.In this conversation, you’ll hear about:Jo’s lived experiences of burnout and what made each one different.The sneaky way burnout creeps in even when you think you know the signs.Why reintegration after burnout is one of the hardest (and most important) steps.Jo’s Seven-Pillar Model, including body, mind, emotions, relationships, organisation, purpose, and self.The danger of toxic passion when our drive to make a difference tips into burnout.How leaders can foster psychological safety, humanity, and anti-burnout cultures.Practical reintegration strategies that help staff return with strength, not shame.Why identity, values, and self-awareness are central to preventing burnout.This episode is essential listening for teachers, school leaders, and anyone recovering from or supporting others through burnout.Connect with Jo:Linked In: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jovanosch/Website: https://inspiredatwork.co.uk/Want to find out more about my new course 5 Minutes to Thrive? Go to my website at www.rowenahicks.comFollow me on:1. Instagram: ⁠@rowenaphicks⁠2. Facebook: ⁠Rowena Hicks⁠3. Linked In: Rowena HicksEmail me: ⁠[email protected]⁠ Visit my website for Books, Journals, Free Community and lots of other interesting stuff: ⁠⁠www.rowenahicks.com