What would you do if success were costing you your health?

Professor Pete Alexander nearly lost his life to stress. His story proves that health is the real success, and no career is worth more. In this powerful episode of Urge to Surge, Ruchika chats with Pete to unpack his decision to walk away from security, redefine success, and build a life rooted in health, gratitude, and purpose. He shares how stress-induced diabetes became the turning point that reshaped his values, why boundaries are essential in work and life, and the practical tools he uses to help leaders avoid burnout. Honest, inspiring, and full of takeaways, this episode is a reminder that true success starts with protecting your well-being.

Follow Pete on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petealexander/

Who Should Listen

• Professionals feeling burned out or stressed

• Leaders seeking tools for healthier workplaces

• Anyone at risk of sacrificing health for career success

• Entrepreneurs and executives managing heavy workloads

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• How to recognize the warning signs of stress before it's too late

• Practical ways to set boundaries with managers or clients

• Why personal values are key to reducing stress

• Daily tools to build resilience and improve well-being

• Inspiration from Peter's story of turning crisis into purpose

Episode highlights:

(0:00) Intro

(2:06) Lifelong struggle with stress

(4:06) Early warning signs ignored

(6:17) Hospitalization and breaking point

(11:07) Shifting values and gratitude practice

(19:25) Laughing off perfectionism

(23:24) Cost of burnout Vs. Income

(27:01) Setting boundaries at work

(36:22) Daily stress relief strategies

(36:54) Final message of advice