Note: This episode was recorded as part of E3: Engage and Empower with Empathy, the original version of this podcast. It is now part of Return on Empathy (ROE)—a podcast series focused on the measurable impact of empathy in the workplace.

What happens when ambition turns toxic? In this eye-opening conversation, host Rebecca Dhrimaj sits down with psychologist and author Dr. Paula Freedman-Diamond to unpack the hidden cost of hustle culture. From eating disorders and body image struggles to the quiet burnout of toxic striving, they explore how compliance and perfectionism erode our mental health. Through vulnerable stories and powerful insights, the episode shines a light on the role of personality, emotional awareness, and self-empathy in the healing journey. If you’ve ever felt like you’re “never enough,” we hope this episode is your first step to overcoming toxic striving.

Sound Bites

• "I turned to food as a way to control."
• "What you resist persists."
• "It's okay to feel this."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Toxic Striving

03:06 Understanding Personality Types in Hustle Culture

06:29 Personal Experiences with Body Image and Dieting

10:36 The Cost of Compliance and Internal Dialogue

14:51 Unraveling Disordered Behaviors

20:21 Building Tolerance for Discomfort

25:01 Empathy for Self and Others

28:08 The Importance of Modeling Self-Care in Leadership

32:56 Building a Culture of Care

Learn more about Paula: https://www.paulafreedmandiamond.com/

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: www.theempathycollective.com