The Balanced Badass Podcast®
The Balanced Badass Podcast® is the show for high-achieving professionals who want to prevent burnout, master work-life balance, and stay badass without losing their sanity.Each episode, we’re not just tackling your overflowing calendar and keeping your household on track; we’re getting into burnout prevention and recovery strategies so that you have time to breathe, laugh, and savor that much-needed glass of wine at the end of the day.Think of this podcast as your regular dose of practical advice, a touch of humor, and a little tough love, like catching up with a friend who just gets it. W...
No, Women Didn’t Ruin the Workplace with Alison Campbell
A 2025 New York Times piece asked whether women have "ruined the workplace," blaming flexibility and empathy for what's broken.
Alison Campbell, founder of unBurnt® and former Chief of Staff turned leadership researcher, joins me to set the record straight. We talk burnout, workplace design, working motherhood, and what her new research with Bentley University is uncovering about how people actually feel at work right now.
This is an honest conversation about who's really responsible for burnout, and it's not the people asking for flexibility.
Read When Burnout Looks Like Productivity: The New Risk t...
Why Being the Chief Everything Officer is Killing Your Career with Alli Murphy
In this episode, we sit down with Alli, founder of Work and Thrive HQ, to talk about how you can get trapped in the Chief Everything Officer role where you’re being the default for everything, saying yes by default, stepping in because it’s faster, and staying constantly available until you burn out.
Alli shares how she hit that point as a young director during COVID, working nonstop and realizing she needed outside coaching to change. We break down why “always being on” is one of the sneakiest parts of the loop, how it can feel like goo...
Know Who You Are Before Deciding What You Do with Elizabeth Galbreath
Most of us built our careers around answers we gave before we really knew ourselves. Elizabeth has a front-row seat to how that plays out. She's an HR pro and founder of Cultivate Growth Co., who works with early career professionals every day.
In this conversation, we get into the expectations gap between what young people think work will look like and what it actually demands, why knowing who you are matters more than knowing what you want to do, and the reflection practice Elizabeth uses to help people stop measuring their worth by what other people...
The One Investment Strategy Nobody Teaches High Achievers
In this episode, Tara breaks down the neuroscience of why burnout kills your joy, and why "just take a vacation" is some of the worst advice anyone can give. If you've ever sat on a free Saturday feeling nothing, or noticed that you can't stop thinking about work even when you desperately want to, this episode explains what's actually going on in your brain and what the path back actually looks like.
Topics covered:
Why high-performance work creates powerful dopamine loops and what that costs youThe neural atrophy that happens when all your emotional investment is in...Effective Tools for Stress Reduction with Audrey Rose
Feeling like you're constantly running on empty? In this episode, registered nurse and nervous system regulation coach Audrey Rose breaks down what it really means to regulate your nervous system—and no, it's not about being zen 24/7 or quitting your job.
We dive into Audrey's personal burnout story from her time as a lead nurse during the pandemic, the science behind fight-or-flight vs. rest-and-digest, and her four-step RISE method for managing stress in real time. You'll learn practical tools like EFT tapping, box breathing, and sound healing that actually work when you're dealing with 700 unread emails, screaming ki...
The Great Unraveling: Employee Engagement Just Hit a 10-Year Low
Employee engagement just hit a 10-year low, dropping from 36% to 31% since 2020. That’s 8 million workers who’ve checked out.
But here’s what the headlines miss: role clarity collapsed, feeling cared about plummeted, and organizations are responding with “practice gratitude” instead of fixing anything.
In this episode, we’re breaking down what Gallup’s new data really reveals about systemic workplace dysfunction, why younger workers are getting crushed, and what you can actually control when conditions are deteriorating.
It’s not you. It’s the system.
Link to article: https://www.gallup.com/workpla...
When Someone Takes Your Idea
Back in August, I posted a viral video about workplace mobbing and received overwhelming support from people who could finally put their experiences into words. Recently, another creator copied my content word for word, highlighting the issue of content theft.
This incident made me reflect on how similar situations happen at work, where ideas are stolen without clear attribution. I discuss the importance of making your ideas traceable, providing context, and using documentation to protect your intellectual contributions.
The takeaway: adapt to protect your ideas and ensure they are recognized where it matters.
Ch...
Your Story is Your Superpower with Corey Andrew Powell
Your personal brand is being built right now, whether you're intentional about it or not.
In this episode, media host and brand strategist Corey Andrew Powell joins me to explore how clarity, consistency, and connection shape the way the world sees you.
Corey shares why your seemingly ordinary story holds more power than you think, and how to stop shrinking yourself to make others comfortable. You'll hear about the soggy grilled cheese that tanked a brand for 30 years, the privacy setting error that ended a teaching career, and the hot chocolate stand story that transformed a...
Job Changes Don't Erase Burnout
Think quitting your job will erase burnout? Think again. In this episode, we dig into the lingering effects of burnout even after you’ve left a toxic work environment.
Learn about burnout aftershocks, rebuilding your sense of safety, and the slow, steady path to true recovery.
We’ll explore how to recognize and rewire your burnout DNA, reclaim your value, and design your work-life balance with intention. Featuring tips on setting boundaries, mental conditioning, and building a supportive network, this is your guide to transforming burnout into sustainable success.
Check out the detailed show n...
Is Your Boss Accidentally Creating Burnout?
Ever felt like your boss is unintentionally making your life a living nightmare?
In this episode, we get into how leadership habits and structural systems fuel burnout. Discover why it's not about you being weak, but about navigating and managing the power dynamics at play.
Learn strategies to protect your sanity, communicate effectively, and regain your energy in a chaotic work environment.
Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.
Got something to say? Text me!
N...
Corporate HR Truths Unfiltered with Jesse Tervooren
Join Tara as she chats with Jesse, aka "Your Unfiltered BFF" on TikTok, who is known for her raw and hilarious takes on corporate life and HR nonsense.
Jesse shares her journey on social media, unexpectedly becoming a voice of reason for many frustrated employees. Discover how small daily injustices and performative HR policies can undermine corporate culture and why unfiltered honesty is in high demand.
Jesse offers insights on how companies can improve employee experience and maintain authenticity. If you’ve ever felt alone in your corporate struggles, this episode is sure to resonate!
When Normal Isn't Possible
In today's shorter episode, I'm sharing some personal thoughts on dealing with the emotional weight of recent events, including a mass shooting close to home and the constant barrage of political noise.
We get into the concept of emotional spillover, why you're feeling extra stressed at work, and how to create temporary normals to cope. Forget "business as usual"; let’s talk about giving yourself permission to be human, finding that balance, and bouncing back slowly when life gets heavy.
Whether it's dealing with community grief or just trying to survive the daily stressors we all...
How to Survive in a Resource-Strapped Role
Ever been dropped into a surprise Monday morning meeting with bad news? In this episode, we're spilling the tea on surviving (and thriving) in a resource-strapped job where budgets are frozen and headcounts are shrinking.
We'll break down practical strategies to stay effective without burning out, including the five Cs framework to diagnose your constraints, how to advocate for what you need with data (not drama), and smart ways to protect your wellbeing.
Whether you're staying put or planning your next move, this guide is your lifeline.
Check out the detailed show notes (h...
Networking Without the Cringe with Devin Lasker
This episode is perfect for those who cringe at the thought of networking!
We talk about authentic relationship building, how to feel more connected in a disconnected world, and Devin's key strategies for keeping relationships warm. Hear how he landed on The Real World thanks to networking and learn practical tips you can implement immediately.
From selfless networking to leveraging LinkedIn features, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for expanding your career and impact. Tune in to discover why networking doesn't have to be dreadful and how it can genuinely change your life.
...
Smart Strategies to Advocate for Your Worth with Tessa Grashuis
Why are so many women working harder than ever but still underpaid?
Career strategist and former recruiter Tessa Grashuis joins me to unpack the hidden world of salary compression — what it is, how it shows up, and why it keeps talented professionals stuck.
We talk about the smartest ways to negotiate at the offer stage, advocate for yourself inside your current role, and push back on outdated systems without blowing up your career. Tessa also shares what really happens behind the scenes in hiring and why persistence matters more than a single yes or no.
<...Leading from the Middle: Why It's the Hardest Job in the Building
Being a middle manager is tough. You’re stuck between the bosses and your team, trying to keep everyone happy while handling a lot of pressure.
In this episode, we talk about why leading from the middle is so hard, what causes burnout, and why middle managers are so important to every company.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed at work or like your efforts go unnoticed, this episode is for you.
Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.
G...
Losing Yourself in the Job
In this episode, we get into the dangerous cultural norm of equating our worth with our work.
We've become people defined by our job titles and productivity, fostering burnout and identity crises. By exploring the roots of this work-centric ideology, we uncover how to separate who we are from what we do.
Let's find out how to reclaim our identities beyond our resumes and build burnout-resistant lives.
Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.
Got s...
Have You Been Set Up to Fail?
Feeling overwhelmed at work despite all your efforts? In this episode, we tackle whether your job is setting you up to fail with excessive expectations, lack of support, and unclear roles.
Discover the concept of the "everything job" and learn the 5 Cs driving burnout framework to identify unsustainable work conditions. Plus, get actionable advice on how to advocate for a more sustainable role using the 5 Ps of role design: Purpose, Priorities, Power, People, and Pace.
Whether you can't quit right away or need a paycheck, find out how to make your job work better for yo...
Designing Your Sanctuary with Nicole Rivers
Ready to transform your living space into a holistic sanctuary?
In this episode, I sit down with Nicole Rivers, the founder of Brave Heron Studio, to chat about how your environment can impact your mood, mindset, and overall well-being. Nicole shares valuable insights on creating a space that supports healing and growth.
If you're into interior design, wellness, and making your home feel like a cozy hug, this convo is for you. Tune in and get ready to rethink your space!
Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) an...
When Stress Disconnects You From Yourself with Jennifer Kuhl
In this episode, we explore the power of reconnecting with yourself to combat stress and burnout.
Jenni, the founder of the School for Mindful Eating and Movement, shares her journey from being a workaholic to finding balance through Yoga Nidra. Discover practical tips, including the 'three Rs' approach (Relaxation, Reconnection, and Reprogramming), to regain control and create a sense of inner peace.
Ideal for anyone feeling overwhelmed, this conversation provides insights into building resilience through mindfulness, breathwork, and self-awareness.
Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave you...
Award-Winning Culture, Just Don't Look Too Closely
In this episode, we explore the stark contrast between the glowing reputation of "top companies to work for" and the unsettling reality many employees face.
Despite impressive awards and certifications, many workplaces fail to deliver on their promises of a supportive, healthy environment. We explore personal experiences, the concept of cultural debt, and the pitfalls of culture certifications.
Job seekers and current employees alike will learn to trust their instincts and ask the right questions to avoid falling for polished façades. Tune in to understand why a shiny badge doesn't always guarantee a healthy work...
4 Types of Career Paths to Explore When Plotting Your Exit
Feeling stuck in your career due to burnout? This episode introduces Career Possibility Mapping, a framework to help you explore new career paths.
We discuss four paths: Step Ahead Roles, Adjacent Roles, Bold Pivots, and Wild Cards.
Learn how to evaluate your options and make informed career moves. Perfect for anyone needing a fresh start or simply wanting to explore new possibilities.
Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.
00:00 Introduction: A Client's Journey
01:58 Understanding Burnout
05:46 Step Ahead Rol...
When Leadership Leaves You Guessing: Coping with Communication Blackouts
Ever walked into work and felt the silence from leadership? It's more damaging than you think!
In this episode, we explore how leadership silence can breed burnout, wreak havoc on your nervous system, and diminish team morale. We'll tackle what uncertainty does to your brain and body, and provide actionable tips for coping and leading in the dark.
Learn how to advocate, adapt, or know when it's time to exit. Plus, discover the five big reasons companies go silent and how you can protect your brain and stabilize your team through the chaos.
Che...
Self-Care Isn't Just a Trend with Pam Rothman, LPC
In this episode, we're going deep with therapist and hardcore feminist Pam Rothman, LPC. Pam shares her journey from crappy boundaries to being a boundary-setting pro, all while tackling burnout and prioritizing self-care.
We chat about why saying no is the ultimate power move and how societal expectations mess with our mental health. Whether you're overwhelmed, burnt out, or just need some practical advice on setting boundaries, this episode's got you covered.
Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.
To c...
Cracking Burnout in Helping Roles with Ina Qema
Today's episode gets into burnout in the helping professions with special guest Ina, a therapist and mentor.
Ina shares her journey from experiencing burnout to mastering balance and leadership in her field. Learn the importance of self-care, boundary-setting, and focusing on strengths to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Get ready for actionable tips and inspiring stories tailored for therapists, coaches, and caregivers.
Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.
To connect with Ina on Instagram: https://www.insta...
Overloaded, Overlooked, and Out of F*cks
Welcome back!
This episode gets into the concept of Effort-Reward Imbalance to explain why you can be working hard and still feel stuck. If you're tired of useless advice and want to get to the root of your burnout, this episode is for you.
We discuss the impact of constant emotional and mental labor, the cognitive load that drains your energy, and how to repair trust in yourself and your environment.
It's time to stop the cycle of stress and start feeling in control again.
Check out the detailed show notes...
Should You Stay or Should You Go? The 3-Question Burnout Test for Leaders
It's the Season 2 finale, folks! We're talking about burnout and how to really figure out if it's time to leave your job. And we'll jump right in with a three-question burnout test that'll help you see if you're stuck in a toxic work environment.
This episode is packed with real talk about misalignment, emotional tolls, and actions you can take to regain control of your life. Whether you're a high achiever or just plain tired, this one's for you.
Let's get honest and make some plans for a better, balanced life.
Check out the...
Is Your Work Persona the Real You?
In this episode, we're getting into the exhausting performance of the work persona that many of us feel compelled to maintain. Tara shares a heartfelt message about the cost of constantly performing professionalism at the expense of our authentic selves.
Learn how this persistent act can lead to burnout, emotional disconnection, and a loss of self-identity. Discover practical steps to start reclaiming your true self at work and beyond. From breaking performance triggers to making small shifts towards authenticity, get ready to acknowledge and challenge the behavioral armor you've built to survive in corporate environments.
Pe...
Breaking Up With Guilt: Why You Shouldn't Feel Bad About Saying No
In this episode, we tackle the manipulative voice of guilt that wreaks havoc on your energy, decision-making, and sustainable leadership. Specifically, we discuss boundary guilt—the kind that makes you feel bad for protecting your own time and energy.
We explore the roots of this guilt, the societal conditioning that exacerbates it, and its costly impact on your mental and physical well-being. Most importantly, we provide actionable strategies to reframe your guilt, build new patterns, and say no without feeling guilty.
Ideal for high achievers, people pleasers, and anyone stuck in a guilt spiral, this epis...
Understanding Hypnotherapy's Role in Healing with Andrea Ramírez
In this insightful episode, we're joined by Andrea Ramírez to explore the incredible power of the subconscious mind. We discuss Andrea's personal journey through trauma, burnout, and how hypnotherapy became a transformative tool for lasting change.
Discover the nuances of hypnotherapy, understand the deep connection between the subconscious and burnout, and learn how to build resilience through self-awareness and intentional living. Whether new to hypnotherapy or a skeptic, this episode offers a fresh perspective on mental well-being and holistic healing.
Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave you...
The Energetic Side of Burnout with Amanda Marek
In this episode of the Balance Badass Podcast, we explore burnout recovery from an energetic perspective with Amanda, a former nurse turned Reiki master and owner of Heart in Harmony Healing.
Amanda shares her personal experience with burnout and how she discovered the importance of Reiki, boundaries, and rest in her recovery. We discuss how energy management can play a vital role in combating burnout and offer practical tips for setting boundaries without guilt.
Join us as we talk about how taking care of your energy can transform your approach to burnout and overall well-being.
<...Your First 90 Days After a Layoff – What No One Tells You About Moving On
In this episode, we're getting into the harsh realities of the current job market and the emotional turmoil that follows a layoff. Whether you've been hit by corporate budget cuts, the tech industry shake-up, or the federal government downsizing fiasco, you're not alone.
We address the grief, identity crisis, and stress associated with losing your job, and provide actionable advice for navigating the first 90 days post-layoff.
Learn why panic applying is a bad move, the importance of setting a new routine, and how to strategically job hunt. By the end, you'll be more prepared to ta...
Running on Empty: Recognizing When Your Energy Reserves Are Dangerously Low
Always feeling tired no matter how much coffee you chug? Let's get into why high achievers push through the exhaustion and often miss the signs of burnout. Discover the sneaky ways burnout creeps in, how stress messes with your brain, and most importantly, how to actually recover your energy.
We're talking about setting real boundaries, making lasting changes, and not waiting until you're totally drained. It's time to take burnout seriously and take control of your energy.
Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions ab...
When Your Workplace is a Ticking Time Bomb: Handling a Culture Where Everyone’s Burned Out
Feeling the burnout at work? This episode breaks down the pervasive culture of workplace burnout, examining the systemic issues like unrealistic expectations, lack of support, and glorification of overwork.
We’ll explore how these factors contribute to a toxic environment and offer practical steps for employees to set boundaries, manage workloads, and protect their well-being. For leaders, we provide insights on creating healthier workplace cultures and preventing burnout from spreading.
Whether you’re an employee or in management, learn how to navigate and mitigate the challenges of burnout.
Check out the detailed show notes...
The HR Playbook for Balanced and Equitable Workplaces with Kirsten Zeigler
In this episode, Tara chats with Kirsten Zeigler, founder of KDZ HR Consulting. The discussion focuses on strategies to keep burnout at bay while building equitable workplaces.
Kirsten gets into her HR expertise, offering practical advice on managing energy, setting boundaries, and leading with integrity. They also cover the importance of pay transparency, inclusive hiring practices, and how to effectively scale a business while maintaining well-being.
Tune in for insightful tips and relatable stories that will help you strike that perfect work-life balance.
To connect with Kirsten:
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/kd...When "Good Enough" Isn't Good Enough: How Perfectionism Feeds Burnout
In this episode, we tackle the paradox of perfectionism and the value of "good enough."
Discover how the relentless pursuit of flawlessness may be the root cause of your exhaustion, anxiety, and burnout. Learn about the origins of perfectionist tendencies, how they play out in adulthood, and the ways they drain your energy and time. More importantly, find out how to shift your mindset without feeling like you're lowering your standards.
From understanding contingent self-worth to embracing a more flexible and adaptable approach, this episode will help you break free from the perfectionism trap and st...
The Dark Side of Company Culture: What "Always-On" Really Costs You
In this episode, Tara discusses the toxic "always on" culture requiring constant availability, which impacts mental and physical health. She examines its origins, driven by technology, hustle culture, the pandemic, and capitalism, and provides practical steps for setting boundaries and challenging urgency without guilt.
Tara also addresses the exaggerated narratives about success and the importance of reclaiming personal time. She encourages listeners to remember their "why" and visualize a balanced life, emphasizing that stepping back can lead to both personal and professional fulfillment.
00:00 The Pressure to Be Always Available
00:40 Understanding "Always On" Culture
01:35 T...
Why Vacations and Self-Care Won't Cure Burnout (And What Will) with Kelsea Warren
In this episode, Tara welcomes Kelsea, The Seamless Coach, who specializes in burnout prevention. They discuss Kelsea's personal experiences with burnout and how they inform her current work.
The conversation highlights the inadequacy of self-care and vacations as solutions for burnout, emphasizing the importance of addressing root causes. Additionally, Kelsea introduces the concept of job crafting and workplace value alignment, offering actionable tips for making your job work for you.
They also explore how organizations can better support their employees by addressing systemic issues rather than placing the burden of burnout on individuals.
To...
The Journey to Self-Discovery with Dr. Lanecha Conner
In this episode of the Balanced Badass Podcast, Tara welcomes the first-ever guest, Dr. Lanecha, known as The ConnectHER. They discuss the importance of reconnecting with oneself amidst burnout, particularly for ambitious millennial women.
Dr. Lanecha shares her journey from losing touch with herself to reclaiming her identity through self-reflection, therapy, and setting boundaries. They talk about the challenges millennial women face in prioritizing self-care while juggling multiple roles and explore the concept of self-reunion.
The episode is packed with actionable insights on balancing personal and professional life, maintaining authenticity, and the courage it takes...
How to Use What You’re Good At to Hit Your Goals
In this second season kickoff of the Balanced Badass Podcast, Tara shares her holiday adventure that unexpectedly landed her in the hospital with blood clots. Reflecting on her experience, she encourages listeners to focus on their strengths to achieve their goals without burnout.
Using relatable examples and research-backed insights, Tara emphasizes the importance of leveraging what you’re naturally good at to make life easier and more fulfilling. She invites listeners to identify and use their unique strengths, offering practical advice on how to do so effectively.
00:00 Welcome to Season Two!
00:35 A Holiday Hospital Sta...
