The Hidden Cost of Leadership: Sarah Buino on Lonely at the Top

Sarah reflects on selling her therapy practice, surviving burnout, and discovering that healing sometimes means walking away. This week we're sharing a conversation that originally aired on Lonely at the Top, hosted by Rachel Alexandria.  Rachel works with CEOs, founders, executives, and high performers navigating the emotional weight of leadership, so it makes sense that this conversation was about one of the most transformative—and painful—chapters of my professional life. In this episode: Why leadership can become profoundly lonely—even when you're surrounded by people The hidden relationship between trauma, workaholism, and burnout Navigating residential treatment and recovery during COVID What suicidal ideation can reveal about feeling trapped and overwhelmed Why asking for help may be one of the most important leadership skills we develop If you've ever felt trapped by success, isolated by leadership, or overwhelmed by the pressure of holding everything together, I hope this conversation reminds you that you're not alone and that healing doesn't require perfection. Originally aired on Lonely at the Top in 2025. Special thanks to Rachel Alexandria for hosting valuable conversations about leadership, vulnerability, and what it really costs to carry responsibility. Join The Therapist Network and receive 20% off your subscription tier when you enter the code SARAHROCKS. Join the waitlist for the next Authentic Leaders Group! This is a journey of self-discovery and leadership mastery, where you'll not only enhance your leadership skills but also forge meaningful connections with fellow therapists who are committed to their own growth and the betterment of the therapy field. Apply now! Thank you to The Therapist Network for sponsoring the show! The Therapist Network is a global community built by and for therapists. You'll find live consult groups, an ever-growing library of workshops and courses, plus a community that really sees you. Sarah's group, Tending to the Wounded Healer, meets every other Monday from 1–2pm CT, and it's a space to explore the intersection of your lived experience and your clinical work. So if you want to feel more supported and less alone, visit TheTherapist.Network—or join Sarah's group directly at tinyurl.com/HealerConsultTTN. UPCOMING EVENTS Check the calendar for opportunities to connect with Sarah and earn CEs. SUPPORT THE SHOW Conversations With a Wounded Healer Merch Join our Patreon for gifts & perks Shop our Bookshop.org store and support local booksellers Share a rating & review on Apple Podcasts *** Let's be friends! You can find me in the following places… Website Facebook @headheartbiztherapy Instagram @headheartbiztherapy