What a RELIEF!

About What a RELIEF!

What a RELIEF is a podcast exploring the real causes of burnout in high-pressure careers — and how ambitious people can succeed without sacrificing their health, identity, or relationships. Hosted by burnout prevention coach André Bright, the show brings together three perspectives to unpack the reality of modern work and leadership: • People who have experienced burnout and rebuilt their lives and careers • Decision makers and leaders navigating pressure, performance, and workplace culture • Experts and researchers sharing insights on stress, resilience, and sustainable success

Publisher

André Bright

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

8 Mar 2026

Latest episode

2 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Jun 2026

   Sheyi Lawale: A journey through stress, perfectionism, and the importance of boundaries

   In this episode of the What a Relief podcast, we chat to Sheyi Lawale, a practicing lawyer and mother of twins, about her journey through stress, perfectionism, and the importance of boundaries. Sheyi shares her experiences of navigating the pressures of her career while learning to prioritise her well-being and the significance of community support. We discuss the concept of life seasons, the role of assertiveness in professional settings, and how faith serves as a tool for managing stress. The conversation emphasises the need for self-awareness, reflection, and the value of building a legacy through meaningful connections. Takeaways Shea Lawale emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in managing stress. The journey from perfectionism to accepting 'good enough' is crucial for well-being. Boundaries are essential for maintaining a healthy balance between personal and professional life. Understanding the seasons of life can help in setting realistic goals and expectations. Skill development is a continuous process that requires reflection and adaptation. Community support plays a vital role in navigating life's challenges. Faith can provide strength and perspective in stressful situations. Assertiveness is key in advocating for oneself in professional environments. Cultural differences can impact how one navigates the workplace. Building a legacy involves meaningful connections and contributions to others. Follow Sheyi on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheyi-lawale/)

2. 

   25 May 2026

   Alexander Pemberton: Recognising & managing entrpreneural stress

   In this episode, Alexander Pemberton shares personal insights and practical tips on recognising and managing stress in entrepreneurial journeys, emphasising the importance of self-awareness, planning, and community support. Perfect for founders and startups navigating the often unpredictable landscape of business and life balance. Main Topics Covered: How stress manifests through habits like hair pulling, eating, and mood shifts The significance of regular breaks and creative activities for stress relief Recognizing external cues from loved ones and colleagues about your stress levels The role of planning and prioritization in reducing overwhelm Building a supportive social capital and understanding your personal "Avengers" Cultivating psychological safety for honest conversations about weaknesses The importance of clarity via SWOT analysis to boost confidence and reduce stress Resources & Links: LaunchSeven (https://www.launchseven.com/) TecRic (https://www.tecric.com/) Alexander Pemberton LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderpemberton) Alexander YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@alexanderpemberton) This episode is packed with actionable insights for founders feeling overwhelmed and looking to foster resilience through self-awareness and community support. Tune in to learn how to better listen to your body, plan effectively, and recognize your social capital’s power.

3. 

   19 May 2026

   Isabelle Ugochukwu: Stress... the absence of peace and authentic relationships

   In this episode, Isabelle Ugochukwu, CEO of MedTech Solutions shares her personal burnout journey, leadership insights, and practical strategies to manage stress and build a supportive environment. Discover how a focus on internal peace, community, and authentic relationships can transform life's pressures into growth opportunities. Key topics: Isabelle's multicultural background and leadership journey to CEO Understanding high processing speed and its impact on stress External versus internal signs of stress and burnout The importance of peace as a stress indicator The role of safe, wise, and supportive relationships in recovery Practical stress management techniques: sleep, nature, therapy, boundaries The significance of authentic connection and community through intergenerational living Red flags: health symptoms, hormonal changes, emotional withdrawal Building trust and psychological safety within teams and families The power of humility, apology, and transparent communication in resolving conflicts Creating lasting relationships that serve as emotional landings or runways Embracing seasons of life, recognizing the need to shift support systems Practical steps: start small, evaluate, and adapt for sustainability The importance of fostering community from a cultural and familial perspective Resources & Links: Books on Leadership and Stress Management (https://amazon.com/s?k=leadership+stress+management) LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelleugochukwu/) X/Twitter (https://twitter.com/IsabelleUgo) This episode highlights the importance of authentic leadership, community support, and self-awareness in navigating stress and burnout. Practical, relatable advice for leaders, parents, and anyone looking to cultivate peace amidst life's chaos.

4. 

   12 May 2026

   Vicki Hodges: How chronic illness impacts mental and physical health

   In this episode of the What a Relief Podcast, André Bright interviews Vicki Hodges about the emotional complexities of living with endometriosis. They explore how chronic illness impacts mental health, the importance of advocacy, and practical strategies for supporting those affected. Whether you're experiencing endometriosis or supporting someone who is, this conversation sheds light on empathetic approaches and workplace inclusivity. Key Topics: The biological and emotional impacts of endometriosis on daily life How stress and inflammation exacerbate symptoms and the importance of completing the stress cycle The variability of endometriosis symptoms and stages, and their effect on quality of life Strategies to manage mental health, including starting the day with positive affirmations and setting boundaries The significance of social support, validation, and self-advocacy for those with chronic conditions How workplaces can foster psychological safety through conversations, policies, and flexible arrangements The role of storytelling and awareness platforms like PauseFully to advocate and educate PauseFully.co.uk (https://pausefully.co.uk/) Fully Told - Podcast (https://www.pausefully.co.uk/fullytold) Email (mailto:vicki@pausefully.co.uk) "Supporting mental health is just as important as managing physical symptoms. Start small—practice gratitude, set boundaries, and lean into empathetic support to foster healing and resilience."

5. 

   7 May 2026

   Dylan Brown | Differentiating "now" vs. "not now" problems

   In this episode, Dylan Brown, a social impact strategist and Stanford alum, shares his journey of managing stress, leading impactful work in challenging environments, and building resilience through embracing difficulty. His insights are especially valuable for leaders navigating high-pressure contexts, whether in social impact or business. We cover: The importance of letting go of control to reduce stress Practical strategies for managing burnout and stress Developing resilience through doing hard things like long-distance running The role of journaling and reflection in emotional regulation Strategies for leaders to support teams and foster long-term success Dylan discusses how his early experiences in Brazil influenced his approach to leadership and stress management The concept of differentiating between "now" problems and long-term priorities Practical routines for handling stress, including making lists, exercise, and journaling The significance of reframing challenges and focusing on process over outcomes How trusting your team and letting go of micro-management can empower everyone for sustained success Resources: Make Your Bed by Admiral William McRaven (https://www.amazon.com/Make-Your-Bed-Your-Life/dp/1591848807) Eat the Frog by Brian Tracy (https://www.amazon.com/Eat-Frog-Leadership-Productivity-Change/dp/0773731727) Slow Productivity (https://www.amazon.com/Slow-Productivity-Doing-Less-Deep/dp/XXXXX) (book recommendation tying into process-focused work) Time to Think by Nancy Kline (https://www.amazon.com/Time-Think-Listening-Change-Lives/dp/1615194399) Connect with Dylan LinkedIn (https://linkedin.com/in/dylanbrown) Twitter (https://twitter.com/dylanbrown) Seja (https://www.sejahubs.org/)

6. 

   28 Apr 2026

   Fea Fasuluku | Embracing Self-Care and Organisational Support to Manage Stress

   In this episode, Fea Fasuluku, a clinical nurse specialist with a mental health background, shares her personal experiences and professional insights into managing stress, especially within healthcare settings. The discussion explores practical strategies for individuals, the importance of organisational support, and the cultural nuances that influence self-care to build resilience against stress and prevent burnout in various professional and personal environments. Key Topics: The impact of stress on healthcare workers and the importance of acknowledging mental health challenges Personal coping mechanisms, including taking space, holidays, and setting boundaries The significance of organizational intervention strategies like supervision, reflective practice, and staff support The cultural conception of resilience, including the notions of “firming it” and how societal expectations affect mental health The role of intentionality in self-care, planning, and implementing change How workplace environments contribute to or alleviate stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue The importance of flexibility, listening to staff needs, and meaningful participation in organizational programs Addressing the gap between awareness of stress and effective implementation of solutions The symbolism of "na fo bia" and its implications for gender roles, societal expectations, and women’s mental health Recognizing unhealthy professional and personal relationships and advocating for systemic change Reflective Practice and Quality Improvement in Healthcare (https://www.ahrq.gov/teamstepps/about/implementation/index.html) Instagram - @Young_Salone (https://www.instagram.com/Young_Salone) Instagram - @FeaRose⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/FeaRose) X (Twitter) - @Fea_Rose92⁠ (https://www.x.com/Fea_Rose92) Facebook - Young Sierra Leonean (https://www.facebook.com/TheYoungSalone)

7. 

   21 Apr 2026

   Nathanya Legesse: Identity, societal expectations, emotional barriers, and the importance of self-awareness and responsibility

   In this episode, André Bright (https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrebright/) welcomes Nathanya Legesse (https://www.nathanyalegessepsychotherapy.com/), a psychotherapist specializing in mental health and systemic therapy, to explore the nuanced differences between stress and burnout, their underlying causes, and how to recognize and address them. They delve into the impact of identity, societal expectations, emotional barriers, and the importance of self-awareness and responsibility in managing mental health. Main topics discussed: The distinction between stress and burnout and how they manifest physically and emotionally How identity, representation, and intersectionality influence mental health experiences The role of societal, cultural, and workplace factors in emotional well-being Strategies for recognizing personal stress signals and the importance of basic self-care Overcoming emotional barriers like guilt, shame, and perfectionism The significance of building emotional regulation tools and the window of tolerance Practical steps to address burnout, including the importance of patience and gradual recovery Nathanya's Website (https://nathanyalegessepsychotherapy.com/) Window of Tolerance explained (https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/understanding-the-window-of-tolerance) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) (https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm) This episode offers valuable insights into practical mental health management, emphasizing compassion, self-knowledge, and responsible action to prevent and recover from burnout.

8. 

   14 Apr 2026

   Samia Dumbuya | Embracing Advocacy, Vulnerability and Self-Care

   In this episode of What a Relief, André Bright chats with climate justice activist Samia Dumbuya about the emotional toll of advocacy, the importance of vulnerability, and practical self-care strategies for sustaining activism without burnout. This conversation highlights how caring for oneself fosters stronger community engagement and long-term impact. Remember, your well-being fuels your capacity to make meaningful change—don't sacrifice it for short-term gains. Topics: The realities of stress and emotional fatigue in activism and social justice work Practical tools for self-care, energy management, and building resilience The importance of community, trust, and vulnerability for psychological safety Strategies for setting boundaries and advocating for oneself in high-pressure environments The role of cultural and organizational support systems in maintaining well-being Samia shares her typical day as a climate justice advocate, emphasizing diversity in her activities from policy tables to community gardens The conversation explores the emotional burden of witnessing global crises, and transforming fear into proactive change Practical techniques such as the Pomodoro method, journaling, and "care packages" for mental health The importance of creating psychological safety and trusting community members to hold space How external pressures and internal expectations can lead to burnout, and the need for sustainable activism practices The significance of vulnerability and authenticity in building trust and collective resilience Personal stories of stress, vulnerability, and the power of community support Links & contacts Innerscope - Resilience in Schools (https://innerscope.co.uk/) The Resilience Project (https://theresilienceproject.org.uk/) by Katie Hodgetts (https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-hodgetts-frsa-9aa207aa/) LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/samia-dumbuya/) Twitter (https://twitter.com/Samiuhhh)

9. 

   7 Apr 2026

   Sean Delaney: Coping mechanisms, addiction, and recovery

   In this episode, Sean Delaney shares his personal journey through addiction, recovery, and the importance of understanding the deeper causes of unmanageable life patterns. We explore how recovery frameworks like the 12-step program extend beyond alcohol to address broader behavioural issues, and how awareness can prevent burnout. Jump to: 00:00 - Introduction to Sean and episode themes: coping mechanisms, recovery, addiction 00:20 - Sean’s background: co-founder, living in Vietnam, personal journey 00:55 - Linking Sean’s story to burnout and stress 01:28 - Sean’s history with alcohol and factors leading to addiction 02:41 - Living to external expectations: method acting as a life analogy 03:06 - Unmanaged life cycle and addiction as a slippery slope 04:11 - The iceberg analogy: surface behaviors vs hidden causes 05:07 - Alcohol as an overt warning sign; other behaviors often hidden 06:18 - The power of recognition and the role of the 12-step recovery program 07:04 - Defects of character and deep-rooted issues under the surface 08:13 - The importance of internal change for lasting recovery 09:08 - The difference between abstinence and true recovery 10:06 - Beyond surface behaviors: understanding deeper self-image issues 11:36 - How to prevent relapse: habits and ongoing self-awareness 12:49 - Service, meditation, community—tools for managing deeper causes 13:19 - The danger of stopping recovery practices prematurely 14:55 - The snowball effect: fear, resentment, and unmanageable life 16:33 - The cause vs symptom approach: why addressing root causes matters 17:26 - The cycle of burnout: feeling better then back to old habits 17:54 - Misconceptions: alcohol as the only solution, behaviors as the root 18:16 - The 12-step program framework and its focus on internal change 19:24 - The origins of AA and its principles: attraction, community, service 20:48 - The importance of surrender and acceptance 22:23 - Creating a sustainable life through service and self-improvement 23:20 - The importance of self-awareness and doing things that align with core values 24:14 - Recognizing that alcohol use is a symptom, not the root problem 26:26 - Cultivating a fulfilling life through spiritual practices and service 27:41 - Dealing with fears through community and action 28:37 - Impact of service, small acts, and gratitude on mental well-being 30:00 - The cyclical nature of burnout and the importance of consistent effort 32:19 - The difference between rest and recovery; maintaining healthy behaviors 33:36 - Looking forward: societal changes needed to address work culture 34:00 - Recognizing unhealthy work patterns and setting boundaries 35:47 - The importance of values, boundaries, and self-worth 37:49 - Questioning habits: "Would I choose this status quo?" 38:41 - Systems, frameworks, and habits from books like Atomic Habits 40:14 - Advice for the next generation: prioritize happiness and relationships 41:24 - The danger of societal focus on success at expense of well-being 42:42 - Shifting from a consumer mentality to intentional living 44:23 - Balancing ambition with contentment 45:19 - Reflecting on time management and priorities 46:57 - Recognizing life balance as a key to preventing burnout 47:49 - Encouragement to normalize conversations about mental health 48:43 - The importance of accountability and aligning values 49:29 - Final thoughts: start talking, reach out, and build supportive habits Resources & Links ⁠Atomic Habits by James Clear⁠ (https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Mindset-Achieve/dp/0735211299) ⁠Sean Delaney on LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/seandelaney) ⁠Sean Delaney on LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/seandelaney) ⁠Seab Delaney on Twitter⁠ (https://twitter.com/seandelaney)

10. 

    31 Mar 2026

    Faith Locken: Hitting rock bottom, & letting go of control

    In this insightful episode of the "What's a Relief" podcast, André Bright chats with Faith Locken, a TEDx speaker, entrepreneur, and leadership expert, about her personal journey with stress, burnout, and mental health. Faith shares her raw experiences, from childhood resilience to hitting rock bottom, and highlights the importance of vulnerability, community, faith, and self-care in managing stress. 00:00 - Introduction to Faith Locken and her entrepreneurial journey 01:28 - Faith discusses her experience with stress and anxiety 03:41 - Facing failure and the importance of listening to oneself 05:43 - Persistent stress in corporate environments and feelings of being overlooked 06:36 - The moment Faith realized she was at rock bottom 07:30 - The impactful call to the Samaritans and the relief of sharing pain 09:46 - Leaving corporate career for entrepreneurship and the role of faith 11:12 - Strategies Faith employs to manage stress, including Sabbath Saturdays and physical activity 13:46 - The challenge of work invading personal life and work-life balance 15:32 - The importance of recognizing internal signs of stress and emotional health 17:45 - The vulnerability of admitting when help is needed 18:19 - The power of sharing and expressive release in healing 22:50 - The significance of external support systems and community 25:29 - Reflection on cultural influences and the need for self-prioritization 27:56 - The control mechanisms and controlling stress through faith and faith-based practices 32:44 - Cultivating self-awareness through frameworks like Jahari window 37:36 - The support Faith received from her family and community during her journey 43:37 - Faith's spiritual practices, including church and scripture reading 44:32 - Connecting purpose, faith, and mental health 45:21 - The relief framework and inner alignment as tools for stress management 48:17 - The importance of recognizing trauma and intersectionality in stress responses 50:33 - The role of modeling vulnerability and deep listening in supporting others 52:19 - Personal growth through self-awareness and seeking help 53:26 - Final words on vulnerability, community, and personal resilience Resources & Links: We Rise In (https://werisein.org/) Rise Members Club (https://risemembersclub.com/) Samaritans (https://samaritans.org/) Bible Study Resources (https://biblestudytools.com/) Connect with Faith Locken: LinkedIn (https://linkedin.com/in/faithlocken) Twitter (https://twitter.com/faithlocken)

11. 

    24 Mar 2026

    Amberlee Green: Radical self care, compassion, & duality

    This conversation dives into the complex relationship between stress, self-preservation and resilience, especially within demanding work environments. Amberlee Green shares profound insights on managing stress, the importance of compassion, and redefining what it means to be more than one thing. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Stress and Burnout 02:17 Understanding Personal Stress Dynamics 05:28 The Contagion of Stress 07:47 Self-Regulation Techniques for Stress Management 11:38 The Role of Compassion in Stress Management 15:31 Redefining Personal Benchmarks 17:42 The Dangers of Fragmentation 21:48 Recognizing Changes in Compassion 25:27 Navigating Burnout and Radical Change 29:30 Embracing Duality in Experiences 32:04 Exploring Identity and Self-Perception 38:00 The Complexity of Duality in Human Experience 43:36 Navigating Change and Personal Growth 53:36 Leadership and Psychological Safety in Organizations Resources & Links: Inside Out (https://www.disneyplus.com/en-gb/browse/entity-d4b87168-7d0b-49bc-b138-457ab7723feb) Solve for happy (https://amzn.eu/d/07ybvw5Q) Connect with Amberlee: Amberlee's website (https://a-green.co.uk/) Reconcile Journal (https://www.instagram.com/reconcile.journal/) Line & Honey (https://www.instagram.com/line_and_honey/)

12. 

    16 Mar 2026

    Aderonke Bademosi Wilson: Stress relief through appreciative inquiry

    In this episode, Aderonke Bademosi Wilson shares her journey through stress, change management, and appreciative inquiry, offering practical insights on managing stress and fostering positive change in organisations and personal life. Key topics: Stress and its impact on mental health Appreciative inquiry as a tool for positive change Change management in organisations and personal life Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 01:45 Aderonke's Background and Work in Bermuda 05:38 Understanding Stress and Change Management 10:32 Personal Journey with Stress and Mental Health 14:14 Tools for Managing Stress and Finding Balance 18:06 Intuition and Recognising Change 27:21 Intuition in Professional Roles and Growth 28:26 Exploring Intuition and Inner Voice 31:27 Understanding Appreciative Inquiry 36:12 The Power of Positive Questions 42:38 Navigating Change and Uncertainty Resources Appreciative Inquiry by David Cooperrider - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=appreciative+inquiry+book Creative Visualization by Shakti Gawain - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=creative+visualization+shakti+gawain Aderonke Bademosi Wilson's Website - https://abwilsonconsulting.com AB Wilson Heart of the Matter Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ab-wilson-heart-of-the-matter/id1541234567 Guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/aderonke-wilson Instagram - https://instagram.com/abwilsonphotography

13. 

    8 Mar 2026

    Dr Munachiso Nwokolo: How to L.E.T. go

    In this conversation, André and Muna (Co-founders of Udo Health), explore the realities of stress and burnout, sharing personal experiences, practical tools, and insights into workplace culture, well-being and resilience. Key topics: Stress manifestation and management Impact of workplace culture on stress levels Tools and frameworks for stress relief Personal journey through burnout and recovery The role of leadership in fostering healthy environments Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 02:14 Understanding Stress and Its Impact 04:49 The Journey Through Burnout 07:55 The Role of Support Systems 10:29 Shifting Mindsets and Taking Action 13:18 Practical Strategies for Managing Stress 15:50 The Power of the Pause 18:10 Energy Preservation and Mindful Living 21:49 Letting Go: The Buddhist Philosophy of Acceptance 23:24 Self-Analysis: Transforming Rage into Curiosity 25:32 The Power of Sharing: Overcoming Shame Through Connection 26:22 Simplicity in Healing: The Importance of Easy Strategies 29:51 Understanding Stress: Perspectives from Different Fields 35:17 Workplace Culture: The Role of Leadership in Stress Management 39:46 Understanding Workplace Dynamics and Value 41:59 The Importance of Acknowledgment and Leadership in Culture 44:13 Empathy and Care in Professional Relationships 46:29 Balancing Profit and Employee Wellbeing 49:38 Fostering Empathy Through Experience 53:43 Final Thoughts on Stress and Burnout Management 58:14 Gold Elegant New Collection Instagram Reel.mp4 Contact Udo Collection on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theudocollection Munachiso Nwokolo on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/munachisonwokolo Support Join our online burnout community - https://www.skool.com/the-relief-hub-2209/about Join the 12-week Ascend Program - https://forms.gle/XhXs1cNfKRs849FW9

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.