Burnout in the arts is widespread, but it doesn't have to be an inevitable consequence of working in arts careers.
In this podcast, I share findings from my research into burnout alongside interviews with arts professionals, exploring why creative work so often leads to exhaustion, how it affects people and organisations, and what practical steps can create lasting change.
This podcast offers insight and tools to help you build a more sustainable creative practice.
Have you experienced burnout working in the arts? If so, you’re not alone. But what exactly is burnout? How does it impact on people’s lives and organisations? And why is it so prevalent in the arts? I introduce major research about burnout amongst creative and cultural workers and explore why it’s been described as a silent epidemic. Useful Stuff Laura: www.weareculturebloom.com Laura on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurafcrossley/ School of Performance...
12 May 2026
Reducing Burnout through Values-led Practice: Chris Webb
How can setting values-based boundaries, working authentically, and transparently challenging issues reduce burnout and spark positive change in organisations? Freelance arts consultant, Chris Webb, gives insight into how burnout can be caused by a lack of alignment between an individual’s ethics and the ethics of the organisation they are working for. He tells us how burnout is affecting people working in the arts and considers why burnout is so prevalent, and discusses useful tools and ways...
12 May 2026
Joyful Work: Andrea Hadley-Johnson
How can joyful work support curiosity, experimentation and connection? PhD researcher, creative producer, and museum sector leader, Andrea Hadley-Johnson, tells us how she has embedded joyful practice into her work, from experimenting with new ways of working to having team meetings outside in a roof garden. She gives insights into her practice, and talks of the importance of slowing down, focusing on what matters, and working with kindness. Useful Stuff Andrea: https://www.midlands4cit...
12 May 2026
What Can We Do to End Burnout in the Arts?
Ending burnout in the arts is possible - but how can we do it? I take a look at actions we can take to make positive change for arts workers and organisations. Together, we can create a sector where burnout isn’t the norm, and which doesn’t harm its workers through toxic cultures and overwork. Change will take time, but through small, everyday actions, and compassionate, intentional practice, we can create a sector which enables people and organisations to thrive. Useful Stu...
12 May 2026
The Power of Rest: Kate Oliver
Why is rest so important for individual and organisational health; and what does good rest look like? Cultural and environmental freelancer and consultant and Founder of the Radical Rest Network, Kate Oliver, breaks down reasons why arts workers are exhausted and overworked. She gives practical suggestions for how we can prioritise and give permission for rest - and push back against the pervasive culture and celebration of busyness. Useful Stuff Radical Rest Network: https://radi...
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