In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I sit down with Angela, a veteran educator with over 25 years of experience, to explore the often hidden realities behind teacher burnout. Angela shares a powerful story about a time when her personal life and work-related stress led to a mental health crisis, forcing her to step back from her role. What followed was a transformative journey where she embraced vulnerability, leaned into support, and challenged the stigma around not coping. Her insights reveal how the pressure to appear in control - especially as women in leadership - can be isolating and unsustainable, and how showing our humanity can open doors to deeper connection and empathy.

Together, we unpack the importance of school culture, empathetic leadership, and setting realistic boundaries. Drawing from Dr. Corey Keyes' book Languishing, we explore five pillars of wellbeing - curiosity, warm relationships, purpose, transcendence, and play, and how they can help teachers navigate chronic stress and reconnect with joy. Whether you’re leading a team, in the classroom, or simply feeling the weight of unrealistic expectations, this episode reminds us that putting our well being first isn’t weakness - it’s wisdom.

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