In this powerful episode of the Refine and Shine Podcast, host Angelina Rivera sits down with her friend and colleague Melissa Burant, a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience spanning the Department of Defense and Iowa’s manufacturing sector. Melissa brings not only her professional insight but also her deeply personal journey of overcoming burnout, redefining success, and rediscovering her creativity through photography.

Melissa shares what it was like to climb the corporate ladder as an achiever, only to realize she was sacrificing too much—especially time with her family. She opens up about shifting from a 40-hour high-stress role to carving out space for herself, setting boundaries, and embracing a slower, more intentional pace of life. Together, Angelina and Melissa discuss:

• The cost of living as a high achiever and learning to say “no” without apology
• How Melissa’s pivot into photography helped her reconnect with her creativity and true self
• The importance of honoring boundaries, balance, and being present
• Why it’s okay to go through seasons without big goals—sometimes just being is enough
• How joy can be found in the simplest of things, from reading a novel to watering plants

This episode is a heartfelt reminder that burnout isn’t the end—it can be the turning point toward living more authentically, reclaiming peace, and redefining what success looks like.

🔗 Resources & Links

• Connect with Melissa on Linkedin Melissa Burant 
• Check our her photography: https://www.melissaburantphotography.com/

Host Contact Information:

• Website: www.angelinarivera.com
• Facebook: Angelina Rivera
• Instagram: @refineandshinepodcast | @the.angelina.rivera
• YouTube: Refine and Shine Podcast | Angelina Rivera
• LinkedIn: Angelina Rivera | Refine and Shine Podcast
• Book a Free Discovery Call: Click Here
• Sukha App: https://TheSukha.co/?ref=angelina (free 7 day tool trial, no cc)

#RefineAndShine #PodcastInterview #BurnoutRecovery #SetBoundaries #WorkLifeBalance #RediscoverJoy #RefineConsulting #TimeManagement #Resilience #WomenInLeadership #PersonalGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #BalanceNotBurnout #MentalWellness #LifeRedefined

Healing in Real Time: Conversations That Matter: 10/3/2025 10 AM PT | 1 PM ET -  Register

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Feeling overwhelmed by endless to-do lists and constant distractions? Join the 8-week Unlock Your Time Potential program to reclaim your time and boost productivity. Join the waitlist today at angelinarivera.com/unlock-your-time-potential. We start mid-October 2025.

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