Ten Years On, What Leadership Has Taught Me About Burnout, Fear And Starting Again

In this episode, I’m reflecting on a few milestones that stopped me in my tracks, ten years since leaving corporate employment, the end of the first quarter of 2026, and the realisation that both have stirred up more reflection than I expected. I talk about burnout, identity, purpose and what I have learned about myself through stepping away from employment and building something of my own.I also share what this last quarter has brought up for me, from emotional heaviness and pressure to the reminder that pushing through is not always the answer. This one is thoughtful, honest and full of those quieter leadership lessons that only seem to land when we finally slow down enough to hear them.Highlights:(03:11) - Why the last quarter felt heavier than I expected (04:12) - What leaving corporate taught me about identity and self-discovery (06:51) - How values became clearer once ambition stopped driving everything (08:56) - Why fear can be data, not a stop sign (11:03) - The reminder that you cannot just keep pushing through (13:35) - What slowing down made possible for me this timeConnect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio