Protecting Your Best Self: Megan Albertson on Boundaries, Identity, and Joy

How do you protect your best self in a world that demands more, faster, now? In this episode of Work is Third, host Dawn Hunter sits down with public health leader and joyful disruptor Megan Albertson for a rich, funny, and heartfelt conversation about what it means to live a purpose-driven life and why your boundaries are sacred. From spiritual practices and morning rituals to an exploration of grief and identity, Megan offers a generous, no-nonsense look at how we can all rethink work, joy, and what really matters. The discussion also touches on the systemic issues in healthcare and the need for universal healthcare, emphasizing the importance of relationships and understanding in policy-making.  Whether you're looking for inspiration on living in the present or simply searching for a better rhythm, this episode is your permission slip to pause, laugh, assert your boundaries, and reclaim your joy.   KeywordsWork, Boundaries, Spirituality, Creativity, Gratitude, Identity, Community, Healthcare, Personal Growth, Life Balance 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 - Introduction and Setting the Tone01:20 - Exploring Spiritual Practices and Daily Balance04:12 - Creative Expression and Its Importance08:36 - The Role of Goals and Aspirations13:10 - Gratitude and Living in the Present17:51 - Navigating Loss and Personal Growth19:53 - Identity and Community in a Queer Context25:25 - Work, Purpose, and the Distinction Between Job and Work28:00 - The Essence of Work and Life Balance28:24 - Reflections on Death and Meaningful Living30:07 - Understanding Boundaries in Work34:38 - The Importance of Energy Flow and Work Quality37:53 - Challenging Traditional Work Norms40:49 - The Flaws of Large Healthcare Systems43:17 - The Need for Universal Healthcare45:24 - Building Relationships Beyond Politics48:49 - Personal Stories and Boundary Lessons49:45 - The Importance of Self-Care 💬 Quotes to hold on to“The work is not the job. The job is how I get paid. The work is my calling.”“If it’s still going to be there tomorrow, I’m not doing it tonight.”“My best hours are for me. Get out of here.”“There is even liberation in rejecting the right answer to the wrong question.”"Living in the present fosters gratitude and joy."🔗 Important LinksPassage MeditationViral Podcast: History. Health. Humor.The FrameWorks InstituteThe Artist's Way by Julia CameronLet’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife