EP 4 - Burnout, Boundaries, and Becoming: Compassion Fatigue to Authentic Leadership

In this powerful episode of the ZenLeader Podcast, Dr. Jodi Blinco sits down with Dr. Emily Garber, physical therapist turned organizational psychologist, to explore the emotional undercurrent of leadership: compassion fatigue. Emily shares her personal story of career burnout, transitioning from clinical care to higher education, and how the pandemic sparked a deeper awareness of her leadership style.

Together, they unpack what it means to lead authentically, the toll that chronic caregiving can take, and how organizational systems often miss the mark in supporting their people. From defining compassion fatigue to discussing the role of AI, institutional accountability, and the importance of honoring boundaries, this conversation offers valuable insights for leaders, educators, and anyone trying to reconnect with their purpose.

Whether you're feeling disconnected, exhausted, or ready to step into your next chapter, this episode will inspire you to look inward, and take empowered steps forward.

 

(04:35) From Pandemic Pressure to Personal Clarity

Emily shares how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped her leadership style and sparked a deeper sense of purpose.

(06:39) Understanding Compassion Fatigue in Higher Ed

She defines compassion fatigue as “the physical, emotional, and psychological toll of being exposed to others’ suffering”, especially common in caregiving and service roles.

(08:29) Subtle Signs of Burnout You Might Miss

Learn how sleep disturbances, disengagement, and quiet quitting may be symptoms of deeper emotional exhaustion.

(12:08) The Breaking Point in Healthcare

Emily describes the moment she realized resentment had crept into her patient care and how it was her signal to walk away.

(14:46) Taking the Leap Without a Net

She left her job, moved cities, and started over without having a job offer in hand. This leap turned out to be a defining act of self-trust.

(16:09) “What’s Scarier, Staying or Changing?”

Emily reframes fear as a decision point, reminding us that sometimes pretending to be fine is the more dangerous path.

(19:28) Systems, Processes, and the People Who Power Them

She explains how broken institutional systems can crush morale, and how leaders can begin to realign processes with purpose.

(22:03) Balancing Tech Efficiency with Human Connection

Jodi and Emily discuss how AI and automation may be helpful tools, but they’ll never replace emotional intelligence or real connection.

(26:17) People-Centered > Student-Centered

A bold reframe: Emily suggests institutions shift from “student-centered” to “people-centered” to better serve both students and staff.

(36:00) Final Wisdom: Go Where You’re Resisting

Emily urges listeners to start their authenticity journey by facing what scares them most:

“The things you’re resisting are probably the things you need to look into the most.”

You can learn more about Compassion Fatigue and Dr. Emily Garber when you connect with her on LinkeDin. https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilydgarber/

Ready to begin your personal ZenLeader journey? Visit www.zenleader.org and sign up for our ZenLeader Masterclass Course: Climbing the Ladder and Staying Calm in the Chaos.