The Balanced Badass Podcast®

The Balanced Badass Podcast®

By Tara Kermiet | Burnout & Career StrategistBusinessEducationSelf-ImprovementCareersManagement
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The Balanced Badass Podcast® episodes

  • The Journey to Self-Discovery with Dr. Lanecha Conner

    In this episode of the Balanced Badass Podcast, Tara welcomes the first-ever guest, Dr. Lanecha, known as The ConnectHER. They discuss the importance of reconnecting with oneself amidst burnout, particularly for ambitious millennial women.

    Dr. Lanecha shares her journey from losing touch with herself to reclaiming her identity through self-reflection, therapy, and setting boundaries. They talk about the challenges millennial women face in prioritizing self-care while juggling multiple roles and explore the concept of self-reunion.

    The episode is packed with actionable insights on balancing personal and professional life, maintaining authenticity, and the courage it takes to align with one's true self.

    *Note: The book referenced in the episode is Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself by Nedra Glover Tawwab.

    To connect with Dr. Lanecha:

    • TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@drlanecha)
    • Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/drlanecha/)
    • Threads (https://www.threads.net/@drlanecha)
    • Iconic Reunion (https://www.drlanecha.com/iconic-reunion)

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome
    05:30 The Connect Her: Origin Story
    11:00 Journey of Self-Reunion
    13:45 Burnout and Identity Crisis
    30:34 Balancing Multiple Roles
    34:14 Embracing Imperfection
    38:35 Defining a Balanced Badass
    42:57 Final Thoughts and Farewell


    Got something to say? Text me!

    Need a little more balance and a lot more badass in your life? Check out my 1:1 coaching sessions designed to help you tackle your biggest challenges, manage stress, and create a personalized plan for success. Your first 30-minute session is free! Visit tarakermiet.com to get started. 

    Want to turn your dreams into reality? Check out my 7 Days to Crushing Your Goals mini-course! This course is packed with practical lessons and hands-on activities designed to help you define your “why,” leverage your strengths, and take decisive action. By the end, you'll have a clear plan and the tools you need to crush your goals. Visit tarakermiet.com/crushyourgoals to join the course and start making things happen! 

    Support the show

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    -----
     👉 Start by taking my free Burnout Drivers Mini Assessment

     😍 Join my community on Instagram (@TaraKermiet) and/or TikTok (@TaraKermiet) so we can stay connected!

    🎤 Got a question, a topic you want me to cover, or just want to share your thoughts? I'd love to hear from you! Send me a DM or email. 

    Stay balanced, stay badass, and make good choices!

    Disclaimer: My content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. For serious concerns, please consult a qualified provider. 


    This episode may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources I've personally used and would suggest to a client. 

    51 min
  • How to Use What You’re Good At to Hit Your Goals

    In this second season kickoff of the Balanced Badass Podcast, Tara shares her holiday adventure that unexpectedly landed her in the hospital with blood clots. Reflecting on her experience, she encourages listeners to focus on their strengths to achieve their goals without burnout. 

    Using relatable examples and research-backed insights, Tara emphasizes the importance of leveraging what you’re naturally good at to make life easier and more fulfilling. She invites listeners to identify and use their unique strengths, offering practical advice on how to do so effectively.

    00:00 Welcome to Season Two!
    00:35 A Holiday Hospital Stay
    01:39 Reflecting on Goals and Strengths
    02:36 The Power of Focusing on Strengths
    03:51 Identifying Your Strengths
    07:24 Using Your Strengths to Achieve Goals
    09:43 Embracing Your True Self

    Got something to say? Text me!

    Support the show

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    -----
     👉 Start by taking my free Burnout Drivers Mini Assessment

     😍 Join my community on Instagram (@TaraKermiet) and/or TikTok (@TaraKermiet) so we can stay connected!

    🎤 Got a question, a topic you want me to cover, or just want to share your thoughts? I'd love to hear from you! Send me a DM or email. 

    Stay balanced, stay badass, and make good choices!

    Disclaimer: My content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. For serious concerns, please consult a qualified provider. 


    This episode may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources I've personally used and would suggest to a client. 

    14 min
  • New Year, New Focus: How to Close Out the Old Year and Gear Up for the New One

    We made it, friend—the season one finale of The Balanced Badass Podcast™! Can you believe we're already wrapping up 2024? This episode is gonna get into the highs, the lows, and the "what the hell was I even thinking?" moments from this year.

    We're reflecting on what worked, what didn't, and what we need to let go of so we're not dragging the same chaos into 2025. I'm also walking you through my end-of-year audit and showing you how to set goals that actually fit where life is taking you.

    If you're ready to clear the clutter, focus on what really matters, and crush 2025 with confidence, this one's for you. Oh, and don't forget to check out my free 7 Days to Crushing Your Goals email mini-course for even more guidance (https://tarakermiet.com/crushyourgoals). 

    Let's close out this year like the badasses we are. See you next year!

    00:00 Season One Finale Kickoff
    00:23 Reflecting on 2024: Highs and Lows
    01:29 Clearing Out the Baggage
    04:10 Lessons Learned: Support and Curiosity
    06:07 Trusting the Process
    07:11 End of Year Audit: Steps to Reflect
    08:00 Planning for 2025: Setting Meaningful Goals
    08:44 The DREAMS Framework: Step-by-Step Guide
    15:29 Taking Action and Measuring Progress
    18:37 Seeking Accountability
    21:27 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead

    Got something to say? Text me!

    Need a little more balance and a lot more badass in your life? Check out my 1:1 coaching sessions designed to help you tackle your biggest challenges, manage stress, and create a personalized plan for success. Your first 30-minute session is free! Visit tarakermiet.com to get started. 

    Support the show

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    -----
     👉 Start by taking my free Burnout Drivers Mini Assessment

     😍 Join my community on Instagram (@TaraKermiet) and/or TikTok (@TaraKermiet) so we can stay connected!

    🎤 Got a question, a topic you want me to cover, or just want to share your thoughts? I'd love to hear from you! Send me a DM or email. 

    Stay balanced, stay badass, and make good choices!

    Disclaimer: My content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. For serious concerns, please consult a qualified provider. 


    This episode may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources I've personally used and would suggest to a client. 

    27 min
  • Why You’ll Never Find Balance–And That’s a Good Thing

    Feel like you're always chasing balance but never quite catching it? Here’s the truth: balance isn’t some perfect, static state—it’s a messy, ever-changing process, and anyone telling you otherwise is selling a pipe dream.

    In this episode, we’re blowing up the myth of “having it all together” and diving into why balance isn’t a destination but a moving target that shifts with your priorities, energy, and seasons of life.

    We’ll explore:

    • Why imbalance isn’t a problem but a sign you’re growing.
    • The science of neuroplasticity and how your brain adapts to challenges.
    • How stress (when managed right) can actually fuel your growth.
    • Practical strategies for setting boundaries, managing your energy, and building a sustainable system for balance.

    Whether you’re leading a team, juggling all the things, or just trying to survive the day, this episode gives you a fresh, snarky perspective on redefining balance and making it work for real life.

    Get ready to stop chasing balance and start creating it.

    00:00 Introduction: The Myth of Balance
    01:13 Understanding Balance as a Process
    02:03 The Science Behind Imbalance
    03:30 Managing Stress and Recovery
    04:19 Balance in Leadership
    07:27 Practical Tips for Daily Balance
    14:42 Mindset Shifts for Long-Term Balance
    18:38 Conclusion: Your Mission for Balance

    Got something to say? Text me!

    Support the show

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    -----
     👉 Start by taking my free Burnout Drivers Mini Assessment

     😍 Join my community on Instagram (@TaraKermiet) and/or TikTok (@TaraKermiet) so we can stay connected!

    🎤 Got a question, a topic you want me to cover, or just want to share your thoughts? I'd love to hear from you! Send me a DM or email. 

    Stay balanced, stay badass, and make good choices!

    Disclaimer: My content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. For serious concerns, please consult a qualified provider. 


    This episode may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources I've personally used and would suggest to a client. 

    21 min
  • Who’s Got Your Back? The 5 People You Need for a Burnout-Resistant Life

    In this episode of the Balance Badass podcast, Tara emphasizes the importance of building a strong support system to combat burnout. She discusses five key types of people essential for creating a burnout-resistant life: role models, mentors, coaches, cheerleaders, and sponsors.

    Tara shares personal stories of her own struggles with burnout and explains how having the right people in your corner can make a transformative difference. She also provides practical tips on how to find and nurture these relationships, stressing that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.

    Tara concludes by encouraging listeners to take action, identify gaps in their support network, and prioritize their mental and physical well-being.

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    00:00 Introduction to the Balance Badass Podcast

    00:20 Understanding Burnout and Its Causes

    00:38 The Importance of a Support Squad

    01:14 The Five Key People You Need

    04:41 Role Models: Learning from the Best

    08:40 Mentors: Your Career GPS

    12:47 Coaches: Unpacking Your Potential

    20:25 Cheerleaders: Your Emotional Support

    23:49 Sponsors: Advocates for Your Success

    28:21 Conclusion and Next Steps

    32:59 Burnout Resistant Career Playbook

    👉 Check out the Burnout-Resistant Career Design Playbook: https://tarakermiet.com/playbook/

    Got something to say? Text me!

    Need a little more balance and a lot more badass in your life? Check out my 1:1 coaching sessions designed to help you tackle your biggest challenges, manage stress, and create a personalized plan for success. Your first 30-minute session is free! Visit tarakermiet.com to get started. 

    Support the show

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    -----
     👉 Start by taking my free Burnout Drivers Mini Assessment

     😍 Join my community on Instagram (@TaraKermiet) and/or TikTok (@TaraKermiet) so we can stay connected!

    🎤 Got a question, a topic you want me to cover, or just want to share your thoughts? I'd love to hear from you! Send me a DM or email. 

    Stay balanced, stay badass, and make good choices!

    Disclaimer: My content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. For serious concerns, please consult a qualified provider. 


    This episode may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources I've personally used and would suggest to a client. 

    37 min
  • Burnout, Red Tape, and Trust Issues (Oh My!): The Case for Workplace Autonomy

    Are you stuck in a job where every decision feels like it needs five levels of approval? Do constant status updates and micromanagement have you feeling more like a robot than a real contributor? You’re not alone—and it’s time to talk about why autonomy at work isn’t just a luxury, but a necessity.

    In this episode, we’re digging into the soul-crushing impact of red tape, micromanagement, and the lack of trust in the workplace. You’ll learn how the absence of workplace autonomy fuels burnout, kills motivation, and leaves you mentally checked out. Drawing on personal experience (hello, higher ed red tape!), I’ll break down why autonomy is essential for employee engagement, productivity, and creating a career that actually feels meaningful.

    We’ll explore:
    ✔️ What workplace autonomy really means—and why you need it
    ✔️ The sneaky signs of burnout caused by micromanagement and bureaucracy
    ✔️ Real-life examples of autonomy killers that might sound way too familiar
    ✔️ Actionable steps to reclaim your autonomy—even in rigid roles

    Whether you’re an employee feeling drained or a leader looking to create a more engaged team, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice.

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    00:00 Introduction: The Autonomy Question

    00:31 The Importance of Autonomy at Work

    03:48 Scenarios of Low Autonomy

    07:52 The Impact of Micromanagement and Red Tape

    08:50 Steps to Reclaim Autonomy

    10:11 Advice for Leaders and Managers

    11:23 Conclusion: Taking Back Control

    Got something to say? Text me!

    Support the show

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    -----
     👉 Start by taking my free Burnout Drivers Mini Assessment

     😍 Join my community on Instagram (@TaraKermiet) and/or TikTok (@TaraKermiet) so we can stay connected!

    🎤 Got a question, a topic you want me to cover, or just want to share your thoughts? I'd love to hear from you! Send me a DM or email. 

    Stay balanced, stay badass, and make good choices!

    Disclaimer: My content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. For serious concerns, please consult a qualified provider. 


    This episode may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources I've personally used and would suggest to a client. 

    15 min
  • Are You in the Danger Zone? Recognizing Burnout Triggers

    Ever feel like your laptop’s overheating? That’s you teetering on the brink of burnout. In this episode, we dig into recognizing burnout triggers and the essential warning signs of burnout that too many of us ignore. From mental exhaustion and physical signs of burnout to setting boundaries and managing work stress, this episode covers it all. Hear a personal story of struggling through anxiety, panic attacks, and imposter syndrome, revealing the dark side of chronic stress. Discover how to break free from the vicious cycle of burnout and learn the exact steps to prevent burnout and regain control over your mental health and productivity.

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    00:00 Introduction: The Overheating Laptop Analogy

    01:17 Personal Burnout Story

    02:57 Recognizing Burnout Symptoms

    05:07 Understanding Burnout: Exhaustion, Cynicism, and Ineffectiveness

    07:26 The Dangerous Cycle of Burnout

    08:28 Burnout Triggers and Warning Signs

    11:20 The Phone Analogy: Recognizing Overload

    12:06 The Importance of Saying No

    13:05 Setting and Enforcing Boundaries

    17:13 Running on Empty: The Hidden Dangers

    20:31 Irritability: A Key Warning Sign

    22:16 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

    Got something to say? Text me!

    Need a little more balance and a lot more badass in your life? Check out my 1:1 coaching sessions designed to help you tackle your biggest challenges, manage stress, and create a personalized plan for success. Your first 30-minute session is free! Visit tarakermiet.com to get started. 

    Support the show

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    -----
     👉 Start by taking my free Burnout Drivers Mini Assessment

     😍 Join my community on Instagram (@TaraKermiet) and/or TikTok (@TaraKermiet) so we can stay connected!

    🎤 Got a question, a topic you want me to cover, or just want to share your thoughts? I'd love to hear from you! Send me a DM or email. 

    Stay balanced, stay badass, and make good choices!

    Disclaimer: My content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. For serious concerns, please consult a qualified provider. 


    This episode may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources I've personally used and would suggest to a client. 

    26 min
  • Keeping It Together When Everything Feels Like It's Falling Apart

    In this episode, Tara tackles the challenge of how to keep it together when life feels like it’s falling apart. She shares a personal story about managing chaos during a flea infestation with her five dogs (surprise twist, there’s a lot of dog pee involved!) and uses it to discuss how to handle stress and overwhelm when everything seems to go wrong. Tara breaks down practical steps for navigating burnout and stress, including how to prioritize what really matters, tips for staying grounded during chaotic moments, and why it’s essential to give yourself grace when life doesn’t go as planned. She reminds listeners that while the chaos may feel overwhelming, burnout recovery is possible, and you’re more capable of handling life’s curveballs than you think.

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    00:00 Introduction: A Day in the Life

    00:13 The Flea Infestation Fiasco

    01:44 The Pee-pocalypse

    03:08 Finding Humor in Chaos

    03:27 Strategies to Keep It Together

    05:48 The Myth of Multitasking

    06:36 Prioritizing and Taking It One Step at a Time

    08:21 Lowering Expectations and Avoiding Burnout

    11:19 Embracing Excellence Over Perfection

    11:45 Giving Yourself Grace

    12:11 Handling Life's Messiness

    13:06 Building Resilience Through Self-Compassion

    15:26 The Temporary Nature of Tough Times

    20:21 Navigating Chaos Without Losing Your Mind

    Got something to say? Text me!

    Support the show

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    -----
     👉 Start by taking my free Burnout Drivers Mini Assessment

     😍 Join my community on Instagram (@TaraKermiet) and/or TikTok (@TaraKermiet) so we can stay connected!

    🎤 Got a question, a topic you want me to cover, or just want to share your thoughts? I'd love to hear from you! Send me a DM or email. 

    Stay balanced, stay badass, and make good choices!

    Disclaimer: My content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. For serious concerns, please consult a qualified provider. 


    This episode may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources I've personally used and would suggest to a client. 

    24 min
  • What Burnout Really Is (And What It’s Not)

    In this episode, Tara tackles the topic of burnout and what it really means. She breaks down the signs and symptoms that indicate you might be sliding into burnout territory, like constant exhaustion, emotional drain, and feeling detached from things that used to bring you joy. Tara also clears up some common misconceptions about burnout—like the idea that it only affects overachievers or that it can be fixed with a quick vacation. She emphasizes that burnout can happen to anyone, and recognizing it is the first step in addressing it.

    Resources mentioned in this episode:

    • Burnout quiz to assess your situation
    • List of 10 signs you're headed toward burnout
    • Handy boundary-setting scripts to protect your time and energy


    You can grab them all at https://tarakermiet.com/free-resources/.

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    00:00 Introduction to Burnout

    01:43 Burnout: A Deeper Dive

    03:19 Recognizing Burnout in Everyday Life

    05:14 Understanding Emotional Exhaustion

    06:46 Depersonalization and Reduced Accomplishment

    09:57 Common Misconceptions About Burnout

    13:38 Rethinking Limits: Simone Biles' Impact

    13:56 The Myth of Quick Fixes for Burnout

    14:47 My Personal Burnout Journey

    17:40 Recognizing Burnout: Key Signs

    21:32 Strategies to Combat Burnout

    24:39 Redefining Success and Final Thoughts

    Got something to say? Text me!

    Need a little more balance and a lot more badass in your life? Check out my 1:1 coaching sessions designed to help you tackle your biggest challenges, manage stress, and create a personalized plan for success. Your first 30-minute session is free! Visit tarakermiet.com to get started. 

    Support the show

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    -----
     👉 Start by taking my free Burnout Drivers Mini Assessment

     😍 Join my community on Instagram (@TaraKermiet) and/or TikTok (@TaraKermiet) so we can stay connected!

    🎤 Got a question, a topic you want me to cover, or just want to share your thoughts? I'd love to hear from you! Send me a DM or email. 

    Stay balanced, stay badass, and make good choices!

    Disclaimer: My content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. For serious concerns, please consult a qualified provider. 


    This episode may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources I've personally used and would suggest to a client. 

    30 min
  • Grieving What I Hoped For: A Post-Election Reflection

    It's the day after the 2024 U.S. election, and I'm off my regular content schedule to unpack the whirlwind of emotions I'm feeling: disappointment, shock, and even despair. This isn't about politics but about the deeper values of compassion, fairness, and empathy that feel threatened by the election results. Struggling to reconcile my hopes for a kinder world with the reality of the vote, I'm sharing my raw thoughts on how this personal heartbreak is more about our shared humanity than mere political decisions. I might lose followers over this, but I'm okay with that—this is about standing firm in our values and finding ways to move forward, one compassionate step at a time.

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    00:00 Introduction and Context

    00:22 Emotional Reactions to the Election

    00:42 Reflecting on Shared Values

    01:03 Disillusionment with Election Results

    02:16 The Personal Impact of Political Decisions

    03:52 Coping and Moving Forward

    05:20 Conclusion and Call to Action

    Got something to say? Text me!

    Support the show

    Check out the detailed show notes (https://tarakermiet.com/podcast/) and leave your thoughts or questions about today's topic.

    -----
     👉 Start by taking my free Burnout Drivers Mini Assessment

     😍 Join my community on Instagram (@TaraKermiet) and/or TikTok (@TaraKermiet) so we can stay connected!

    🎤 Got a question, a topic you want me to cover, or just want to share your thoughts? I'd love to hear from you! Send me a DM or email. 

    Stay balanced, stay badass, and make good choices!

    Disclaimer: My content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. For serious concerns, please consult a qualified provider. 


    This episode may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources I've personally used and would suggest to a client. 

    8 min

About The Balanced Badass Podcast®

From the publisher's feed

The Balanced Badass Podcast® is for high-achieving professionals who are burned out, checked out, and tired of pretending the job is fine.


Hosted by burnout and career strategist…